Zoom H1 + windshield ok for LOUD live recording?

[Joseba]

Hi there
I attend many shows I'd like to record STRICTLY for personal enjoyment. Shows range from clubs with no PA to lollapalooza style big shows outdoors. All of them are loud ....

I've been researching for portable recorders that do the job inside my low budget and my best option seems to be Zoom H1 plus (chinese) fur windshield. That would set me back 100$.

What I need:
-Ok recording quality. Nothing too fancy but listenable.
-Conceivable. Security for big shows is pesky.
-Ability to record high volume.
-No intrusive sounds while I keep the gear in my shirt pocket. Windshield ???
-I would like to "dance" a little, drink, etc without losing recording quality. Not too much at least ...

I await TB wisdom and experiencies to light my way. Thanks everyone !!!

 

[Johnny Crab]

Experience here with the H4, H4N, H2N, and Q3HD(audio & video).

H4 used on my pedalboard to record every band gig
H4N used with various DSLR cameras for audio
H2N for work, band gig backup, and any sound recording(i.e. the chickens and coyotes out here)
Q3HD for concerts where it is allowed in(resembles a cellphone when in use, I've had no issues)

You might look at the H2N outfitted the same as you suggest above. I carry one for meetings at work and in a small camera bag clipped to my gigbag as a backup to a Zoom H4(records all of our shows for reference and historical). The H2N gives a ton of life on AA's(daughter got one to use in college for lecture classes) and has the same Zoom quality.

ANY Zoom(or other recorder) used will most likely have movement noise if you plan to record with it in your pocket while moving. The is no "cancel my pocket noise" setting on any recorder I know of. The settings used on the Zoom's audio here for acceptable quality and record time is:

192 kbps rate mp3
auto gain on
compressor on

Issues I've had:
wind(with or without screen) will cause the compressor and autogain to vary the audio level. Live with that or have wind noise if outdoors in south Texas on a windy day, been there and done that.

 

[Joseba]

Thanks for the reply !!

What you mention about movement noise being recorded is one of my main concerns. If it can't be done, I won't pull the trigger. I won't sacrifice my fun to get a recording.

Any idea if any windshield would help? Maybe a quality external micro plugged into my phone would be a wiser move?