Portable audio recorder

Zoom H1essential handy recorder

A pocket recorder that records in 32-bit float, so a sudden loud sound doesn’t distort the file. This bundle comes with a 64GB card, a small tripod and batteries. Keep the original file, and note the time and place it was made.

What the listing says

Records in

32-bit float, so there are no gain levels to set

Microphones

Built-in X/Y stereo pair; works with a lavalier mic for interviews

Recording tools

Pre-record, auto-record, timer and markers

Power

Up to 10 hours on 2 AAA batteries, or USB-C

Storage

microSD card, up to 1TB

In this bundle

64GB microSDXC card, handgrip tabletop tripod, cleaning cloth and 4 AAA batteries

Why it is on her list

It keeps the original file, and 32-bit float recording means a sudden bang won’t distort it, which matters when the sound itself is the evidence. Markers let you flag the moment as it happens, so you can find it again and check what else was going on.

Before you buy

This listing is a bundle sold by a third-party seller (Metavance Limited), with SonicSound accessories rather than Zoom’s own. Zoom H1essential listings on Amazon give different battery counts and storage figures, so check this one before you order.