Zoom

Zoom Q2N-R Handy Portable Video Recorder (Red)

4.0 (19 reviews)
1080p

A pocket-sized video recorder with X/Y stereo mics and 24-bit/96kHz audio, built specifically for capturing live music.

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Overview

The Zoom Q2n Handy Video Recorder is purpose-built for musicians who want to capture rehearsals, live performances, and practice sessions with audio fidelity that matches dedicated recording equipment. Its built-in X/Y stereo condenser microphones can handle sound pressure levels up to 120 dB SPL—loud enough for amplified rock bands and drum kits—while recording at resolutions up to 24-bit/96kHz in WAV format. This combination means you get detailed, dynamic audio that preserves the nuances of a live performance, whether you're documenting a gig for social media or reviewing your playing in the practice room.

On the video side, the Q2n features a 160-degree wide-angle lens with an F2.0 aperture that captures a broad field of view, ideal for filming an entire band or stage setup from close range. Ten built-in scene presets handle the tricky lighting conditions found in clubs, concert halls, and outdoor stages, adjusting exposure and color automatically so you can focus on playing rather than fiddling with settings. Video records at up to 1080p/30fps in MPEG-4 format to micro SD cards up to 128GB. While the Q2n's video specs won't compete with modern 4K cameras, its audio performance in a music context is where it truly distinguishes itself—making it an essential tool for any musician who wants a reliable, grab-and-go recording solution.

Key Features

High-quality 160 Degree wide-angle lens (F2.0, 16.6 mm)

10 “Scene” presets for use in a variety of different lighting environments

Built-in X/Y stereo microphones, capable of handling very loud music sound levels up to 120 dB SPL

Capture up to 24-bit/96 kHz high resolution audio, with data saved in MPEG-4 format for video and WAV format for audio-only recordings and Records directly to micro SD/SDHC/SDXC cards up to 128 GB for extended recording times

Video resolutions and frame rates: HD 1080p / 30 fps, HD 1080p / 24 fps, HD 720p / 30 fps , HD 720p / 24 fps,Audio formats:WAV (24-bit/96 kHz, 24-bit/48 kHz, 16-bit/44.1 kHz)

Specifications

Brand
Zoom
Model
Q2N-R
Color
Red
Lens
160° Wide-Angle, F2.0, 16.6mm
Scene Presets
10
Microphones
Built-in X/Y Stereo (up to 120 dB SPL)
Audio Resolution
Up to 24-bit/96kHz
Audio Formats
WAV (24-bit/96kHz, 24-bit/48kHz, 16-bit/44.1kHz)
Video Resolutions
1080p/30fps, 1080p/24fps, 720p/30fps, 720p/24fps
Video Format
MPEG-4
Storage
Micro SD/SDHC/SDXC up to 128GB

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • X/Y stereo microphones handle up to 120 dB SPL, capturing loud performances without clipping or distortion
  • 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution produces studio-quality sound recordings
  • 160-degree wide-angle F2.0 lens captures the full stage without needing to step far back
  • 10 scene presets automatically optimize video for challenging stage lighting conditions
  • Compact, portable design is easy to set up on a table, mic stand, or tripod

👎 Cons

  • Maximum video resolution is 1080p/30fps, which falls behind current 4K-capable competitors
  • Recording is limited to micro SD cards up to 128GB, which may require swapping cards during long sessions
  • The wide-angle lens can introduce noticeable distortion at the edges of the frame
  • No wireless connectivity or live streaming capability built into the unit

Frequently Asked Questions

The Q2n features built-in X/Y stereo condenser microphones engineered to handle sound pressure levels up to 120 dB SPL without distortion, plus 24-bit/96kHz audio recording—capabilities that consumer cameras and phones simply don't offer for loud live music environments.
It records in Full HD 1080p at 30fps or 24fps, and HD 720p at 30fps or 24fps. Video is saved in MPEG-4 format.
The scene presets optimize the camera's exposure and color settings for different lighting conditions commonly found in performance venues—such as stage lighting, dim clubs, or outdoor settings—so you get usable video without manual adjustments.
It records to micro SD, micro SDHC, or micro SDXC cards with support for capacities up to 128GB, allowing for extended recording sessions.
Yes, it can record audio-only files in WAV format at resolutions up to 24-bit/96kHz, making it useful as a standalone field recorder for rehearsals or reference recordings.