Comparison
Reel vs Zoom H6essential
Zoom's 6-channel 32-bit float recorder with interchangeable microphone capsules.
Visit the Zoom H6essential site ↗The short answer
The Zoom H6essential is Zoom's most flexible handheld. It records six channels of 32-bit float and takes interchangeable X/Y and M/S mic capsules, with XLR/TRS inputs and phantom power. Reel records in the same 32-bit float but goes a different route, turning your iPhone into a 4-track recorder with overdub, looping and a jog wheel. Pick the H6essential when you need a lot of pro mic inputs on a dedicated box. Pick Reel when you want tape-style layering in your pocket with nothing extra to carry, plus support for USB interfaces, instruments and grooveboxes.
Feature comparison
| Feature | Reel | Zoom H6essential |
|---|---|---|
| Simultaneous tracks | 4 | 6 |
| Bit depth | 32-bit float | 32-bit float |
| Max sample rate | 96kHz | 96kHz |
| Overdub | ||
| Punch-in recording | ||
| Looping | ||
| Variable-speed playback | ||
| Tactile transport (jog wheel or scrub) | ||
| Built-in microphones | iPhone mic | |
| XLR inputs with phantom power | ||
| Records from a USB audio interface | ||
| Works as a USB audio interface | ||
| Runs standalone, no phone or computer | ||
| Price | $14.99 one-time | ~$299 |
| Platform | iOS 18+ | Standalone device |
Every value is researched per product against manufacturer sources and may change over time. Verify current details with each maker.
Where Reel wins
- +Overdub and looping for building arrangements
- +Jog-wheel scrubbing and tape transport
- +Records USB hardware instruments and grooveboxes like the SP-404 MK2
- +No dedicated hardware to carry
Where Zoom H6essential wins
- +Six channels with interchangeable X/Y and M/S mic capsules
- +XLR/TRS inputs with phantom power
- +Runs standalone on battery
- +Can act as a multichannel USB interface
Frequently asked questions
Is the Zoom H6essential better than Reel?
For capturing many microphone inputs on a dedicated device, the H6essential is more capable. For tape-style multitrack layering on the iPhone you already carry, Reel does what a handheld recorder cannot.
Do they record the same audio quality?
Both record 32-bit float. The H6essential adds pro mic capsules and XLR inputs, while Reel uses the iPhone microphone or a connected USB interface.
Try Reel on your iPhone
A portable 4-track recorder with 32-bit float audio and a hardware-inspired workflow.
Download on the App Store