A few months ago I was in the market to find an inexpensive way to record the audio during wedding ceremonies. It was very important for me to be able to clearly record the Minister, Bride, and Groom because we often use what they say for voice overs in our videos. While all of our equipment was equipped with Rode shotgun microphones, I really needed to find a simple solution to capture the audio up close.
After some research, I found some very expensive and bulky solutions for what I needed. While I am sure they would have all done amazing, I was not satisfied with the price tag. Then I came across the Zoom H1 for around $100.00. This was so cheap compared to all my other options. I was a little skeptical, but I decided to try it out. I ordered the Zoom H1 Ultra-Portable Digital Audio Recorder and Audio-Technica Lavalier Microphone.
As soon as the package was delivered, I was instantly satisfied. It is super small, simple, and recorded beautifully. I tried it out a bunch before its debut at one of our weddings. At the wedding I clipped it on the groom about 45 minutes before the ceremony, pressed record, and locked it so he couldn't press stop record. It couldn't have been easier! When I got back to our studio, I could not believe the what it captured and the quality it recorded.
For its price, size, and ease of use I would recommend the Zoom H1 to anyone in our industry. It is a perfect addition for any Wedding Videographer's tool box.