Zoom M2: A 32-bit Disappointment? Our Honest Review!

Рет қаралды 14,801

Жыл бұрын

e purchased the Zoom M2 with the hopes of using it for future recordings while traveling the world. However, during our testing, we encountered some issues that caused us to stop filming.
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Пікірлер: 184

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

If you like our content and want to support our small channel check out our All In One Bundle 2.0, which includes all of our recordings dating back to the beginning of our sound recording journey.! Get $5 off and receive over 1.8 TB of sounds from all across the world recorded by us! Updates are all free :) ►ftus.gumroad.com/l/allinonebundle/FTUS5

@RafaelSwit Жыл бұрын

Thank you for this review! It’s a shame Zoom didn’t quite nail it with this one. What’s the point of a handheld mic if it’s so noisy. They need to get back to the drawing board. Can’t wait too see your reviews for the rest of Zoom’s M lineup and maybe a comparison to their 32-bit F line. Honestly, I don’t understand why they just don’t make 32-bit versions of their H series recorders. They could keep all the same bodies and features, and just give us 32-bit + USB-C + Bluetooth for extra $.

@chrisw5742 Жыл бұрын

They fixed the issue

@bmon9682 10 ай бұрын

TIMECODE pls!!

@DreamNoiseFM Жыл бұрын

As a sound creator myself it's always a pleasure to watch your videos! Regarding the zoom M2 it's really a shame that they cheaped out so much on that recorder, makes me wonder if it's not better to just stick with the H1n. These lines on the spectrogram show how sensitive it is to interference, and question is if it's own electronics inside is generating some of that as well. Such a shame since zoom makes really awesome recorders like my F3, which is great! Again, thanks for the video and i can't wait to see the next one!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for watching and coming along with us! If you have the H1n but you want to upgrade to a smaller handheld recorder maybe try getting the Sony A10. I might do that.

@ahmedadambd1939 Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSounds Hi Marcel, Yes it's a good idea to use the Sony A10 and maybe you will like the Bluetooth app. And of course, if you want a better preamp, a tank portable audio recorder (but bigger almost like the Zoom H5: larger but shorter), there is the Sony PCM D100. Not easy to find a good, used, one at a reasonable price. Thank you for your useful review.

@eltont862 Жыл бұрын

For portability and when you need excellent audio I recommend the H6. The H1n is great but limited and the H8 is even better but I regret getting it because of how bulky and oddly shaped it is. I was planning on getting the M2 but after this review I think I'm going to just go with the F6 for quality and the 32bit float.

@paulcooper9981 Жыл бұрын

My H2n is over 10 years old and still working ok (after a bit of contact cleaning on the mic selector switch). If it breaks, I’ll seriously consider buying another one the same - after looking around a bit at more modern devices. It does suffer from handling noise but I just avoid handling it! It also does pick up mobile phone interference (occasional beeps) so I have to keep it at a distance. Do other recorders suffer from this?

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Ahmed! Yeah it’s available here on Amazon Japan. But over 800 already. But we might buy it because its sooo good sounding and proofen to be the best handheld recorder

@Hachday Жыл бұрын

Thanks Guys for the review, the handling noises you"re experiencing are exactly what I was afraid of when I saw the shape of the M2. Very weird when you design something to look like a hand mic to not care about handling/contact noises 🧐

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

So glad we could address this issue Pierre! Thank you so much for watching and let's hope the M4 has less handling noise.

@gyur6 Жыл бұрын

"So what is it now, an EMF device?" So much buuuurn hahahaa. What do they think when they sell a device like this to people? 🤔 Great vid as always! The vibes are warm and good even in cold disappointment :)

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching György! We hope to see you in the next one!

@Max-mh5yo Жыл бұрын

I was about to buy one. Lucky i watched you video first.

@jonesthestone Жыл бұрын

Hi Marcel, thanks for another great video, but i must say that the moment you opened the box i thought it looked like a piece of junk, shame really as i love zoom products, especially my H5,

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Jones! Thank you so much for watching and I do love Zoom products too. The F6 is my all time favorite device. We have another KZfaqr from Japan who order the M4 for us. We pay him of course and pick it up in a couple days. I haven't lost hope yet. Fingers crossed this one is better. But I can tell you already that the M2 won't leave Japan with us.

@manutecpodcast Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the information on this device.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching!

@EduardoBarba6 Жыл бұрын

Hello dear guys, that's too Bad, so sorry. I have the Zoom h3-vr and Zoom h8 and those recorders have self noise too, thank you for all the advices you always give us, i hope the m4 does not have those kind of problems thank you guys again, Big warm hug Libby and Marcel. Grateful in everything, Eduardo. ✌🏻

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you Eduardo! Let's hope for the best. M4 is ordered :)

@RadaSada Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing the update, maybe the purpose of the Zoom M series is for stage or studio recording not for field recording.. in stage situation that ussualy using dynamic mic and suppose there is a need typical condeser mic for paticular voice timbre then this Zoom M series will handle it..

@maciekkk123 Жыл бұрын

1:41 Best description of interview ever! :)) Thanks for a morning laugh.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it! :)

@14capital47 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the review!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching!

@Energine1 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for highlighting this. Zoom has some reflection to do... Hopefully they are capable of correctly identifying what is responsible for such obvious oversights.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Let's hope so.

@VulcanworxSG Жыл бұрын

Damn got so excited w the M4 and this!!! .. thanks for doing it!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for watching!!

@Chips-Lab Жыл бұрын

There’s a new Zoom M4 available, very interesting with the timecode feature. They claim a « New shock-mount system body construction, and specialized finish to reduce handling noise » on this one. Would love to see your review

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Coming in soon! :) We pick it up on the 18th of December.

@Cluniocu Жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing and tell us the truth!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Always a pleasure Jorge. Today we pick up the Zoom M4

@WayneRECs Жыл бұрын

Thanks for this video! I have/had high hopes for the M2, M3 & M4, but feel like they won't live up to expectations. It's like Zoom had the right idea about 32-bit float recorders (for the general masses) but the execution feels rushed. Will you be testing the M4 it has this experience soured the MicTrak line for you?

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Wayne! Yes, we have another KZfaqr and viewer here in Japan we ordered the M4 for us. Should arrive in 3 days and we pick it up in Tokyo. We make a video right away and I haven't lost hope yet.

@raphaelmalfliet Жыл бұрын

You could've thrown it into the water! We support this!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Noooo we wouldn't do that. :)

@chrisw5742 Жыл бұрын

Only some of these had the problem. Early release models. The ones you get now don't have this problem.

@thewheelchairednomad8030 Жыл бұрын

Very interesting. I know it may be stretch but of all the microphones you have or have used, which is the most versatile? If you could only have one to use which would it be?

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi! This is a good question and I loved using the Audio Technica 4025 but if I had to choose now to carry only one microphone with me, it would be the Rode NTSF1 or the Sennheiser VR microphone.

@davidh1187 17 күн бұрын

I have enjoyed sound recording on and off for more than 15 years now but the trouble with age is that I lose frequency's - I couldn't (clearly) hear the interference you were talking about (too high and beyond my range now I assume). Makes me wonder if I am wasting my time sound recording now....

@bekahjohnson1884 Жыл бұрын

I was about to buy the M4 and you just saved me! I’ve been waiting for a good alternative to the Portacapture and I’m so bummed this isn’t it. Maybe I’ll just get a Portacapture after all. Thank you so much for this video!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Bekah, this is the video about the M2. We bought the M4 and pick it up tomorrow. So we have a video coming up about the M4 very soon. Fingers crossed it arrived in time.

@bekahjohnson1884 Жыл бұрын

Oh I’m glad you said that I assumed they’d be made the same. It could be different! 🤞

@mochachaiguy Жыл бұрын

I still experience handling noise with my H4n, which is why I bought the Rycote handheld suspension kit for it. A recorder shales like a microphone however, is just asking to me handled - not the best decision from Zoom. I also hear a prominent self noise in quiet conditions.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Ed, this shock mount could have been a good solution but without having the thread it's difficult. Using it with another adapter and the plastic holder makes it look extreme high.

@thistled0wn Жыл бұрын

I first heard of these new M series when I saw your unboxing video a couple days back. I was curious but sceptic seeing the form factor, since as a handheld "interview" recorder it would need to have serious decoupling/shockmount for the capsules to eliminate handling noise. Obviiously it doesn't, also a bummer that they skimped on the shielding to prevent interference. Well, there's hoping that the M4 be a good upgrade path from the H4N Pro, looking forward to your testing once you're getting that model. at the MSRP of the M4, it has some serious competition for fieldrecorders.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Here in Japan its at ¥45000 which is about $330. I might have the recorder on December 18th. Lets hope for the best. :)

@MattSpaugh Жыл бұрын

Zoom's tagline should be "Great Ideas. Poorly Executed." I have the F6 and I like it but overall I find that Zoom seems to be very invested in creating innovative products that fill a specific niche, but they're very much lacking in the implementation of those products. My F6 had two channels and one XLR connector go bad within the first 18 months of use. When i inquired about repair, the only option was to have a new one sent to me for 1/2 the retail price of a new one... the battery catch on the new one broke off the second time I used the unit. FWIW, I take very good care of my equipment. I even made a video about the custom cage I built for my F6 to keep it safe on set. Love your stuff - keep up the great work.

@eltont862 Жыл бұрын

Thank you, I was literally planning on buying the M2 today but not now. I would have been very angry to discover these issues after delivery. I don't think even using a noise gate would clean this up enough to make it useable.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hello Elton, so glad you made that choice because this is one of the reason why we made this video. We don't want that you and other spend money on something that makes you angry. Just imagine all the resources waisted.

@Vaibhav-ku9xn Жыл бұрын

A handy recorder catching its own button click noises? That's a big design failure!! Anyways, great video as always :)

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much and we're glad you see it that way as well.

@Marczking Жыл бұрын

on my H4N pro when I change the volume I also get the click-sounds, so that's the same. Otherwise the noise is much less otherwise when carrying and holding the microphone. And for the instances I really need to adjust the recording levels during recording I got the extension remote-control for changing the volume.

@Vaibhav-ku9xn Жыл бұрын

@@Marczking I get slight button noises with my h1n too. Especially with the volume buttons, they're kinda clicky. Although they can be minimised by being extra careful. I think they should use buttons made of rubber instead of hard plastic, that might eliminate the problem completely. Also, the extension remote control you mentioned..can I use that with my h1n as well?

@Marczking Жыл бұрын

@@Vaibhav-ku9xn yeah, I was surprised about how loud they could be when listening back afterwards. Once I knew I tend to set the correct levels before I start, or I change it more cautiously, plus click and hold for larger changes. The rubber buttons could have been solution, good thinking :P And I just checked, for the H1N it doesn't seem to have possibility to use a remote, the one I have is specifically for H4N (pro). I only used it once for recording a theatre performance where the volume levels changes a lot. I think because H1N is base level device it doesn't have option for connecting a remote. The H2N I saw has a different remote option I found searching now. Having a remote is very specific use case, 99% I use just the device too ;)

@Vaibhav-ku9xn Жыл бұрын

@@Marczking Oh alright sir! Thank you for confirming :)

@bfolkens Жыл бұрын

Was a bit worried because I bought the H1n last week but this video makes me feel a lot better 😂

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Bradford, no need to worry at all only because something new came out. The H1n is a great recorder, not just today but also in 10 years.

@edulopezphoto Жыл бұрын

Eres el mejor. Me encanta tu sinceridad.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much!!

@tudeproductions7946 Жыл бұрын

Yea just got an m4 and it still has the issue. Contacted Zoom, but most likely will have to return it and try something else, which is too bad as the M4 has everything I need on it.

@treyedean Жыл бұрын

I have the Zoom F6 and I really love it. I was excited to see Zoom come out with a hand-held 32-bit recorder. It's really too bad they made it so cheap. They really could have had a premium product on their hands.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

True :(

@stephenbarlow2493 Жыл бұрын

Good honest reviewing.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you Stephen!

@TeamEnFil Жыл бұрын

I was sure this would be an improvement over the successful H1N, but seems not to be. I would like to have seen the speaker in action, and I think a very big letdown is that the file formats don't include mp3

@giligilichia Жыл бұрын

hey，thank you so much for doin this，really helpful，was paln to buy one, and now im looking for TSCM x8 ,at 5:09 there You mention that line remind you of the x8,what is that line means for? Is that mean noise level or ? Is that mean x8 have the same prob ?

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi! Tonights video will probably convince you not to go with the M series at the moment. We have a video about the problems we discovered with the X8 but maybe they already fixed it. It's a frequency line issue in the upper frequency range. As long as you don't pitch down the samples you won't notice it without our hearing range.

@giligilichia Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSounds i see,thanks so much for your reply,love your channel!!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

@@giligilichia Thank you so much!!!

@ahriik Жыл бұрын

Man, the button clicking noises really feel like step back for Zoom. They went from physical buttons for adjusting gain on the H1/H4n to the smooth knobs on the H5/H6, but now back to the buttons? I get that they're going for the handheld vocal mic form-factor, but with so much handling noise I can't imagine it would be very useful at all for that purpose (as you demonstrated). Seems like it makes the most sense as a "mount it to a stand -> set gain -> leave it alone" kind of recorder, and if that's the case then just stick with the H-series body style. Thanks for all you do man!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching. Yes knobs are great and I actually like what Tascam did with the X8. The digital slider function is good and the more I use the X8, the more I like it.

@kyleranney Жыл бұрын

All these devices have handling noise. I'm still gonna buy one. Perfect for what I need it for, to replace the H4N. the Timecode is worth it to me for this and over the F3. F3 can only do TC with certain parameters and lacks a setero pair. I'll use my F4/8 and actual mics for the other stuff. This is mostly a plant mic / feed off reporter's box deal for me when I'm running camera without a sound op.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Kyle, you mean the Zoom M4 right? We bought it and pick it up tomorrow. So we make a video about it!

@2121cv Жыл бұрын

It is a shame that the result does not live up to the concept (good idea bad results). I think the idea is pretty good. It reminds me Yellowtec's "mics with recorder" (they are only interview oriented) or the old Nagra Ares-m before the recorder craze came. Thanks for pointing out the details of the absence of screw threads, noises, realistic situations, etc... As it is, in my case this thing is pretty much unusable. I hope that this is due to an unfortunate accident specific to this model. I don't believe it. 32 bits or not, a comparison with other internal microphones of the zoom or others would be a plus (before to dispose of this device!). Thanks for your time. (Merci)

@rbingraham Жыл бұрын

A thumbs up for you and your work to keep us informed about what is out there. But a thumbs down for the M2. I'd rather spend less money, get one of the H series and probably have a better recorder over all, just won't get the 32 bit recording.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much and yes there is nothing wrong with a Zoom H6 to start with.

@Marczking Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the video, nice to see you have snow too! We have here in London, also rather rare :P I like it much more back home in the alps, but also nice this way :) Marcel, can I ask you what the program it is you use to show the waveforms in the past few videos? (also in this one) And do you use any program to organise your files? I have a system with folders and naming (probably from one of your videos), but I haven't found a solution I'm happy with for having a searchable system where I can build up a sample library with a lot of meta-information on each file. Also split up recordings into smaller chunks for specific sounds. For making music there are online searchable platforms to find everything, but I want to build my own using own recordings, not from any 3rd party! Maybe that would be something like soundminer, but that is just too expensive last I checked :"(

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi! Thank you so much for watching. Absolutely! I'm using Adobe Audition but this is part of a cloud and not cheap either. It's a monthly subscription but I can also recommend Izotope RX if you like to use it. You can always find a pre version to a cheaper price. You mentioned Soundminer. I would love that but I can't use a program with a dongle. I would loose this in a heartbeat. I use Soundly most of the time for organizing and writing metadata but also basic MAC PAGES to write everything out. For categories you probably know UCS category system right? We made it to Sapporo and the snow right now is crazy. I'm heading out right now after responding to your comment and record some night snowfall ambience :)

@Marczking Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSounds Thank you so much!! I have never looked into Adobe Audition, generally I prefer others over Adobe when it comes to video and images. But I will check it out if you're happy with it! And I can get a student subscription, or use an account of a friend who has full suite already, I think I find a free or at least cheaper way :P The other recommendations I will spend time too, and UCS I know, yes yes! It's great, but I also need something on top to be able to use :) Hope you have fun outside. With proper snow I love the calmness with having white layer covering everything. "Die kleine Welt", at least feels a lot smaller in snow. And sounds so nice too.

@edwardnixon1782 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for this! To be honest, I looked at it in your unboxing video and said to myself: this is a mistake. Why combine the recorder and a (hand held) mic in such a closely integrated manner? Particularly in a presumably highly sensitive, 32-bit environment. It's an odd decision for Zoom to have made given all the history around handling noise in the N series devices even if they tend to be mounted rather than hand held. And of course, the switchable mic modules on some N's if a great feature. But how could handling noise not be a bigger issue in a primarily hand-held form factor. Investment by Zoom that would have been better used, e.g., upgrading the F4. The marketing department has too much power over the techies I think.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hello Edward, you have a really good point here and this is often the case in companies. It's either the marketing team that has more power or employers can't speak up against the supervisors or tell them how they really feel. We hope with our honest review and opinion we could point out some of the issues.

@christiannikodemus6606 Жыл бұрын

Could you explain a bit more about what you mean by indifference? @ 6:58 I haven't heard this term before!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Christian! Ohh sorry, English my second language. I mean Interference.

@jabnls Жыл бұрын

So according to their M4 commercial, they claim you don't need to touch any buttons because of the 32-bit float. Essentially saying it doesn't matter where your levels are at. Do you agree with that?

@ww1www Жыл бұрын

I got excited for a short second. I thought they released a successor of the H1n. But OMG, what is this? Who needs it?

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

That is the question right Krisztián?

@andik9222 Жыл бұрын

Der M2 Rekorder sieht tatsächlich "so gut" aus, wie er anscheinend funktioniert und durchdacht ist .. Egal, das Wertvollste aus diesem Video ist eigentlich dieses: Vielen Dank für dieses ehrliche Review! Ich freue mich sehr zu sehen, dass jemand, der Produkte einer bestimmten Marke gerne und viel und existenziell (!) nutzt nicht davor zurückschreckt ein ehrliches Feedback über offensichtlich schlechte neue Technik abzugeben während viele Produktreviews auf KZfaq die offensichtlichen Schwachpunkte wegen "gratis Demo Präsenten" unter den Teppich kehren. Vielen Dank und weiter so 🙂

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much Andi and we're really glad and happy that you see us that way. Here on our channel you can expect honest, light hearted and fun videos about gear and sounds of the places we visit. We hope to see you again :)

@dqvid Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the review... I would've bought this had i seen this in a store first. I carry my h1n everywhere because it's small and i can plug in external mics/piezos. I wish Zoom had just put a 32bit float chip in an h1... This is bully, impractical and the absence of inputs is an absolute deal breaker. I can't think of what application/target they were designing for...

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for watching David! Yes, H1n with a robust housing, 32 biut, mic In and you're set for success.

@bernardussamuel5870 Жыл бұрын

This video makes me keep my own Zoom H6... (since I really love this) or I would buy Zoom H1n one day 🤔 Anyway, I really waiting some Zoom M4 review, since Zoom claims they have Preamp quality such as Zoom F3... If yes, then Zoom M4 would be a great upgrade for the Zoom H-series recorder user.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Bernadus, is there a link where they say that about the F3 or a video out? We have the M4 in two days. We need to pick it up in Tokyo.

@billB101 Жыл бұрын

Suffers from exactly the same problem as the H2, the shell is so light and hollow it's completely unusable as a handheld device, which also makes it totally rubbish in anything above a breeze. My Samsung S22 smartphone with its built in app is a better option in respect to this for occasional field recording. Also no tripod thread?? And that glossy finish. Nope :(

@arcoholic3 Жыл бұрын

Great video, well done for making your disappointment fun to watch. I have used Zoom recorders for years and years, starting with the H5 (which had better handling than the H4) and now my bag always has an H1n (you're recommendation and I now have two) and an F3 with assorted mics (Lom Usi Pro or FEL Clippy and a selection of others, currently a Sanken CMS 50) - So they've made me leave behind my Sound Devices machines for lightness and versitility. This M2 doesn't seem to add anything so I will not be investing. But thanks again for all your work in this field. I look forward to your next video so Happy Christmas and Frohes Neues Jahr!!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi! Wow I tried to get the CMS 50. Quick question. You use the CMS with the F3? How do you decode the MS signal?

@leecrichlow6773 Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSounds just got it a couple of weeks ago after being envious of a friend's ms set up. Bit of an impulse purchase. I use my protools. Set up one track for m signal, another for the S panned left, then duplicate this track and pan right with reverse phase. Then bounce the mix of all three to a stereo pair. Seems to work well. But I am looking for a plug in to do a more refined job.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

@@leecrichlow6773 Ah! I was worried that it may not work with an F3 when just plugin in the mics in channel 1 and channel 2. I would love to get the Ambient Emesser and use this as an MS set on top of another microphone.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

By the way, I contacted Sanken and several other companies here in Japan. Waiting time between 3 to 5 months for this product as well. Glad you got one ( not jealous at all :)))

@arcoholic3 Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSounds I was very lucky. There's a company over here (UK) called Pink Noise. They had one in stock and I hit the buy now button! I do tend to buy from them quite often.

@NoName_4 Жыл бұрын

Danke

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Bitte :)

@chrisdooks5903 Жыл бұрын

This doesn't really surprise me as they've gone for the cheapest end of the production line - something I didn't like abut their H1 and H2 series of recorders which to be honest had the same level of handling noise in my opinion. But it's just not fit for purpose is it? especially as a hand held mic! But I thought they had changed their act after the F3 which I own. The F3 has excellent pre-amps, and has saved me from taking my sound devices unit out with me, so I'm wondering if they are skimping here on cheap noisy mics and mass produced pre-amps. It's also quite a weird looking object. Very odd. Also, there's are tougher grades of plastic you can source - some of which is much denser that this fragile thing!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for watching Chris! F3, F6, MixPre6ii are great recording devices but we may have to wait for a new amazing mini handheld recorder.

@michaelbehan5507 Жыл бұрын

Great closing scene 😁😁 Thanks for addressing the M2 honestly, but I'm sure there are some good uses for it.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching Michael!! :)

@medialex78 Жыл бұрын

Yes, there is at least one good use for it - exactly that one it has been designed for. I am very disappointed that the reviewer here used it in some weird situations instead of respecting its design. When I started off as a radio reporter just after the millenium, we used MiniDisc recorders in combination with wired handheld microphones for outdoor interviews. Back then, everyone of us dreamed of one of those newly-released (and now discontinued) HBB FlashMic audio recorders based on a Sennheiser handheld microphone. Later on, Yellowtec iXm series was released, took the market, is still available today - but with at least € 999,- the flexibility to use an audio recorder just like a regular microphone comes at a rather high price. Now Zoom´s M2 tends to fill this gap for 80% less - but nobody seems to recognize. Please let make me clear that this device is first of all a low-budget mp3 recording handheld microphone for reporters/interviews out in the field. Looking at its design, it is definitely not meant as a field recorder for sound creators or similar usecases. If you keep using it as intended, you will not have to care about handling noise, because no proper reporter will hand his microphone over to a person he/she is interviewing. The one who holds the microphone controls the discussion. This is how we used to work out in the field back then, and this is how it has been done before for decades. And no one would carry around a microphone stand with a handheld microphone stuck on it. Maybe sound creators tend to do this, but for us radio people it was an absolute no-go back then. Unfortunately I had no oppotunity to take a look at Zoom´s new MicTrak series, but as soon as it has been released here in Germny I will definitely do that.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

@@medialex78 Hi! We appreciate your feedback and that’s absolutely correct what you’re saying about what reporters do and how they handle microphones. We’re glad you made that comment and if the M2 is perfect for your field of work thats awesome. We just got the M4 and I make sure to mention it. Really appreciate it.

@medialex78 Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSounds Thanks for your understanding. I am also thrilled to try out the M4 as premium alternative to the M2 as soon as it will be available here in Germany.

@michaelbehan5507 Жыл бұрын

@@medialex78 Thanks for replying with an excellent use case for this microphone. As Marcel demonstrated, the handling noise did seem to be far less in mono, and I would assume mono would be used in field interviews as you describe them. I'm sure there are other uses as well that this microphone would work great for. BTW, I used to use a MiniDisc recorder with a wired microphone, but purely as a hobbyist making recordings of friends.

@pshimmons Жыл бұрын

So Which handheld recorder is actually GOOD at not having this handheld noise?

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

This is a really good question. I know field recordists love the Sony PCM 100D but its hard to get now. Price keeps on going up for this discontinued unit.

@YoungBlaze Жыл бұрын

this is a nice mic if you dont touch it, look at it, or breathe on it

@nims1944 Жыл бұрын

このノイズは仕様のようですね...。私のM2も左側が発振することがあります。 This noise seems to be standard... My M2 also sometimes oscillates on the left side.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Nims, this shouldn't be standard. But thanks for letting us know that you have the M2 too and I'm not alone with that.

@gregwilsonnaturephotography Жыл бұрын

Hey Marcel, it looked like you threw it into the River when you sadly walked away! Did you get a recording of the splash in the water? Very disappointing. Greg

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Ha Ha Ha, Oh no we wouldn't do that. :)

@hamitcampos4989 Жыл бұрын

Ah it's bad. It's like the H6 with the MS H6 ball on. Is the M4 Better? That 1 was more interesting as it has XLRs.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Hamit, well, we just released a new video including the M4. :(

@keinpodcast4053 Жыл бұрын

OK, now I'm glad that I don't have to spend more money :) The handling noise and the self noise are similar to my H2n. But I can't hear the interference - I guess my ears are too old. Thanks for the testing, you saved many people a lot of money. The only use I see for this devide is in street interviews in a noisy environment, where the sound quality isn't so important. I'm afraid the M4 isn't any better either. It's a bummer. Zoom could have made a lot of money with a H5 or H6 in a 32bit version. Well, maybe it will come in a few months. Vielen Dank und viele Grüße aus dem tief verschneiten Mössingen - Til.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi Til! Lets just hope its not as bad :) The M4 is ordered and I should pick them up on the 18th of December. We're in Sapporo right now. Snow everywhere :)))

@geoffaudio Жыл бұрын

that last shot 😂

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

:)))

@nobbystyles4807 Жыл бұрын

ok fine but this is kind of comparing a novelty recorder to a proper field recording set up. if you had an f8 connected to rode ntg plus for example you wouldnt be touching the mic or moving it around unless on a boom in which case it would be mounted in a blimp or at least have a cradle of some sort. in this case zoom have made a toy that is trying to do the job of two separate devices and it really doesnt work that well unless you set it recording and leave it alone. so bit of a mute point really.

@VOByRobbins Жыл бұрын

Wow, what a dud, they killed it with the F3, how could they fail on these new recorders? such a shame, I really like zoom too-- big bummer.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

It is a big bummer Michael! I guess the F series team and this M series team are are maybe not in the same house.

@ezoroc Жыл бұрын

I use Zoom M4 and TASCAM X8. I was worried when I saw your video and tried recording with two devices. The same noise could not be confirmed even if it was brought close to a microwave oven that was just powered by an outlet and turned on. on either device

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Thats good news

@user-nu8bf3bf9m Жыл бұрын

ZOOM recently admitted the RF issue and I have a question for your unit. Would you please take a look at your unit’s serial number and if they falls within the range listed below? If they are not, according to ZOOM, your unit should't have that much of a RF issue. Japan M4 : 0007 - 0650, USA M4 : 0101 - 1800, Europe M4 : 0311 - 1500

@ezoroc Жыл бұрын

@@user-nu8bf3bf9m Thank you. i have been to contact ZOOM Support

@user-nu8bf3bf9m Жыл бұрын

@@ezoroc Thanks for your reply! So the unit you got had RF issue and you're getting a replacement from ZOOM?

@ezoroc Жыл бұрын

@@user-nu8bf3bf9m I usually use binaural microphones so I can record without being affected by RF noise. Perhaps the noise is added when using the built-in microphone. And I have not replaced it yet. I have been informed by support that a replacement may be available in March or so. They will contact me when the replacement unit is ready.

@LudwickMa Жыл бұрын

Please review Zoom m4? It SEEMS perfect for field recording.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Check the last community post :). I just picked it up 10 min ago. Video coming soon :)))

@LudwickMa Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSounds Thanks, saw the unboxing video. Sadly IPad app doesn’t show community posts. When you do review, please cover if the XLR/TRS ports are Each mono/stereo, and if they take 1/4 mono inputs? Also, does the 3.5mm line in also get 32bit float on its own, in mono/stereo, and can it record simultaneously with any of the other inputs (or built-in mics). Thanks a million

@emodate Жыл бұрын

7:35 cue “🎶 Christmastime is here happiness and cheer…” That said I guess this mic really isn't designed for field recorders...

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Merry Christmas Jon! :)

@kenjikenji2003 Жыл бұрын

🙌🏽

@CameraRay Жыл бұрын

I just don't know who this is meant for. I would rather carry the H1n. Maybe the M4 would be worth buying but this is a disappointment.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

We will find out soon. We ordered the M4.

@StarskyHomer Жыл бұрын

That handling noise is abysmal. The H1n was a lot better. Especially since the M series seems designed to be held as a hand held mic. The design is more than strange, especially on the bigger model. I hope Zoom isn't making any more of these decisions. The F8 Pro software update & general update in comparison to the F8n was kinda poor too. Still with the mini USB and no software backup track. You do not need physical channels for dual recording. Tascam did that software only almost 10 years ago on the 60D MKII. Oh boy... but there does seem to be a trend going on with newer less reliable handheld recorders.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

It seems like it :((

@mistercohaagen Жыл бұрын

This thing is going to bomb hard. C'mon Zoom, we know you can do good stuff. Give up the 32bit H6!

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

And that’s all they needed to do.

Жыл бұрын

wow....

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

❤️❤️

@Radio_Zombie Жыл бұрын

I don't see how this is any different than the H2n (the only zoom I own)

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Good point. You can place it on the table like the H2n. But with the H2n you can have the ambisonic function.

@nickcabrera3982 Жыл бұрын

I don’t understand why they made it look like a radio shack karaoke toy. Doesn’t even look pro-sumer.

@user-el5fv9vy4w Жыл бұрын

I am waiting for zoom new handy recorder. A new handy recorder that supports 32bit float. When will the new handy recorder be released?

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Not sure when the official launch is but maybe by the end of December?

@user-el5fv9vy4w Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSounds Wow~!! Is a new handy recorder coming out soon?

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

@@user-el5fv9vy4w Quick question. Did you watch the video?

@user-el5fv9vy4w Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSoundsyes. I saw the video (m2 sound). I can't understand English well...

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

@@user-el5fv9vy4w Oh I see. Well the Zoom M2 is very disappointing and we showcase some of the issues.

@overjok Жыл бұрын

It's not bad but I prefer the h1n ^^, I thought you were going to throw it in the water 😂😂😂

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Ha Ha Ha no we wouldn't do that. :)

@dimitrimoonlight Жыл бұрын

Hahaha, zoom M2 is not a mic. It's form of mic but just an audio recorder. Mic holder doesn't hold is unfortunate.

@bolttracks Жыл бұрын

The amount of interference this thing picks up makes me think the only testing was done in an anechoic faraday cage 💀💀

@cryptotrader2779 Жыл бұрын

Thanks Zoom ... for saving me money !! Wow, we were all excited about Zoom bringing out an updated range of 32bit handhelds, and they give us this garbage ? I'm honestly shocked and I can't believe there is so much wrong with this new unit. Aside from it being 32bit, I can't find one positive thing to say about it. I must admit that I didn't hear the interference, so I will listen to that part again. I'm sticking with my H1n and H6 and maybe add an F3 soon. Anyway, thanks so much Marcel. Let's hope that the M4 is so good that we can completely forget the M2, even though I really don't like the M4 design either. I still can't believe that after all these years of no new handheld releases, they go and produce these cheap looking useless toys. It's not even a good toy either. What a huge let down.

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Simon, you are amazing! We appreciate your honesty and willingness to express your opinion. If Zoom reads it and other comments they could overthink the entire series (I doubt it), and we're glad we could highlight topics that we care about. The interference is a high-pitched tone that I've heard a few times in different places and cities. Perhaps we should go back to basics. The Zoom H6 is excellent. You don't have to worry about breaking that one if you drop it. Perhaps even trying to get the Sony PCM 100D or Sony PCM A10. There are few devices available on Amazon in Japan, however they are now priced at over $800. It appears to be a lot, but I'm considering it because you also receive a lot of quality and the units are running out and will no longer be accessible eventually.

@cryptotrader2779 Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSounds I see so many others saying exactly the same as me. We're all very disappointed because they should have been great. The Sony's are good and they were available here a few months ago for $600 in Thomann, but they sold out very quickly and I'm not sure I want one. It's also very wierd that we 're still looking at units from 10 years ago for better sound quality. That's pretty crazy. Anyway, I think I made my feelings clear about these new Zooms so I'll shut up for now. Super disappointed and my money is definitely staying in my pocket. I probably wouldn't take the M2 if someone gave it to me for free.

@user-ld8ep5qr7m Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSounds Hi Marcel, Great video! Do you know the rough frequency range of the interference? I'm listening on decent headphones, and can still (in my advanced age) hear up to around 14kHz, but I wasn't sure what noise you were trying to point out - I heard what sounded like bus brakes squealing, and a bit of wind rumble, and that general white-noise-type/'waterfall' sound from what I assume is the river beside you, but nothing that sounded like interference? If it's over 14kHz, that might be why. Thanks!

@Marminata Жыл бұрын

That sucks. I guess you'll have to send it to me so I can take over the burden. What a tragedy...

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Ha Ha yes we would do that but shipping isn't so easy out of Japan. We already tried returning the Sennheiser MKE 440. This broke down too.

@Marminata Жыл бұрын

@@FreeToUseSounds By the way, your outside outfit is fire. Is that Japan's doing?

@FreeToUseSounds Жыл бұрын

Hi! Oh thats Allbirds. A company from New Zealand and known for shoes. We found a store in Osaka and I bought the set. Its still not enough to handle the cold. I wear two more layers underneath:)