Sony XLR Handle Unit XLR-H2 for FX5

Preorder now — expected to ship August 18, 2026.

Professional audio, straight into the camera. Mounted on the FX5's Multi Interface (MI) Shoe, the XLR-H2 Handle Unit adds XLR microphone connectivity and 96 kHz/32-bit float recording — capturing everything from a whisper to a sudden loud transient while dramatically reducing the need for on-set gain riding.

Dual ADCs run two analog-to-digital converters at different gain levels simultaneously, then combine them into 32-bit float data. The result is a dynamic range wide enough that levels can be pushed hard in post without clipping. Four channels of input allow simultaneous multi-microphone recording to independent tracks, with safety channels at different gain settings and flexible assignment across CH1–CH4.

Because it connects through the MI Shoe, there are no audio cables and no separate battery — power and audio pass digitally through the shoe. The extended grip improves handling for low-position and run-and-gun work, three anti-rotation threaded holes take accessories securely, and an additional threaded hole accepts a cold shoe using the supplied Accessory Shoe Kit. OL (overload) lamps sit on each input for instant level checks, with LOW CUT, ATT and manual gain controls grouped on one side.

Key Features

• 96 kHz sampling for detailed, Hi-Res-capable audio
• 32-bit float recording for wide dynamic range and clip-resistant post
• Dual ADCs at different gain levels for maximum dynamic range
• 4-channel audio input with flexible CH1–CH4 assignment and safety channels
• Cable-free and battery-free via the Multi Interface Shoe
• Independent 32-bit float WAV recording alongside video audio
• Extended grip with three anti-rotation accessory threads
• OL lamps per input; LOW CUT, ATT and manual gain dials grouped together

Specifications

A microphone is not included. Not compatible with the ILME-FX3, ILME-FX3A, ILME-FX30 or ILME-FX2. Audio physically clipped at the microphone input stage cannot be restored.