ZOOM H8 FIELD RECORDER

Three interfaces in one – podcasting, music and field recording

The Zoom H8 is one of the most advanced and cutting-edge recorders on the market. The thing that sets the H8 recorder apart from conventional recorders is the quick and easy workflow. The touchscreen display features three main recording modes that cater to different applications. The modes are comprised of: Music, Podcast and Field. Each mode optimises the H8 to capture the best possible recording, no matter the situation.

The three app-driven modes adapt to your recording scenario at the touch of a button. For example, the “Podcast” mode provides you with a versatile app that incorporates a range of exclusive features. It provides you with dedicated sound pads which you can use to Sound FX, jingles, music bites and more.

Using the “Music” app mode, the H8 will provide you with a wide range of useful parameters and settings. It allows you to adjust audio levels, provides real-time metering and much more, allowing you to have optimal control over your inputs and outputs. Record, mix and edit with ease.

Completing the trifecta is the “Field” app mode which optimises the recorder for field recording. It provides you with all the key features you could need when recording on location. Large meters are displayed for keeping an eye on your levels as well as allowing you to adjust the low-cut filter, compression, limiter and much more.

Immersive sound with interchangeable capsules

At the heart of the H8 is the XYH-6 microphone capsule. This stereo X/Y capsule is perfect for a wide range of recording applications. From recording immersive field sounds and vocal ensembles to capturing studio-grade sound for podcasts and more, the H8 can do it all. The included unidirectional capsule delivers stunning signal clarity and audio fidelity, capturing every nuance of your audio source.

You can swap between a wide array of microphone types thanks to the interchangeable capsule system. For example, should you require more immersive 360-degree audio you could swap in the VRH-8 capsule found on the ambisonic microphone. This capsule would be perfect for recording live performances, podcasts and even sound for film. There are six interchangeable capsules (not included) to choose from, so you can always capture the sound you want.

Onboard effects and multi-channel audio interface

As well as the optimised workflow, the H8 boasts a range of onboard effects that you can use to optimise your recordings before the processing and editing stage. For example, you could use the built-in compression to ensure a solid signal level throughout, ideal for podcasting and other applications. The built-in low-cut filter is also great for minimising unwanted rumble when field recording, or capturing sound in a busy environment.

Boasting a wide range of inputs and outputs, the H8 can also be used as a premium-grade, multi-channel audio interface. Using the USB connection, you can connect the Zoom H8 to your PC, Mac, iPad or tablet device. From there, you can utilise up to 12 channels of simultaneous recording. Connections are comprised of four XLR inputs (with pad switches and gain controls) as well as two XLR/TRS combo jacks with Hi-Z switches. You can also monitor your tracks using the headphone output or mount it directly to your camera using the dedicated stereo line input.

Easy navigation with touchscreen LCD display

The large and clear LCD display features a touchscreen design that allows you to get hands-on with your settings and parameters. This bright touchscreen allows you to navigate your different modes and parameters with ease, providing an ergonomic layout that is quick and easy to use. You can even use the BTA-1 (not included) to use your iOS device as a remote control, for even more portability.

Features

• One of the most advanced handheld recorders on the market
• Customised controls for podcasting, field recording and music
• Record up to 12 tracks simultaneously
• Interchangeable microphone input capsules
• Records directly to SD, SDHC and SDXC cards up to 512GB
• Up to 24-bit /96kHz audio in BWF-compliant WAV or a variety of MP3 formats
• Onboard effects for optimising audio recording including reverb, compression and delay
• Navigate settings easily with large LCD touchscreen display
• Complete with XYH-6 X/Y capsule which provides secondary input via a stereo 1/4-inch Mic/Line In mini phone jack
• Up to 20 hours of battery life from AA alkaline batteries (battery life is approximate depending on usage)

Specifications

• Number of input channels: 8 (XY mic capsule, 1-4, A, B)
• Number of output channels: 2 (stereo headphone and stereo line)
• Connectors:
  • MIC IN: ZOOM mic connector
  • INPUT 1-4: XLR jacks (2: HOT)
  • INPUT A/B: XLR/TRS combo jacks (XLR: 2 hot, TRS: TIP hot)
  • USB: USB Micro-B (audio interface, mass storage and Guitar Lab connection functions) (Note: Use a USB cable that supports data transfer. Operation using USB bus power is possible)
  • REMOTE: ZOOM BTA-1 or other dedicated wireless adapter
  • LINE OUT: 3.5 mm stereo mini
  • PHONE OUT: 3.5 mm stereo mini
• Phantom power: +24 V/+48 V (independent ON/OFF for INPUTS 1–4, A and B)
• Recorder:
  • Recording media: Cards that support SD/SDHC/SDXC specifications
  • Formats:
    • WAV: 44.1/48/96 kHz, 16/24-bit, mono/stereo
    • MP3: 128, 192, 320 kbps
  • Maximum simultaneous recording tracks: 12 (MIC IN, backup recording, 1-4, A, B, and LR)
• Audio interface:
  • Multitrack mode: 44.1/48/96 kHz, 16/24-bit, 12-in/2-out
  • Stereo mix mode: 44.1/48 kHz, 24-bit, 2-in/2-out
• Tuner: Chromatic/Guitar/Bass/Open A/Open D/Open E/Open G/DADGAD
• Built-in speaker: 400 mW 8 ohms mono speaker
• Display: 2.4″ (320×240) full-colour touchscreen LCD
• Power:
  • 4 AA batteries (alkaline, NiMH or lithium)
  • AC adapter (ZOOM AD-17): DC 5 V/1A
  • USB bus power
• Estimated continuous operation time using batteries (hours: minutes): Using alkaline batteries, Using XY mic, 44.1 kHz/24-bit (stereo × 1): about 15:00 (values are approximate)
• H8 External dimensions: 116.4 mm (W) × 163.3 mm (D) × 48.6 mm (H)
• XYH-6 Dimensions: 78.9 mm (W) × 60.2 mm (D) × 45.2 mm (H)
• H8 Weight: 354 g
• XYH-6 Weight: 130 g

Note: When using a USB cable designed for recharging, audio interface, SD card reader and Guitar Lab connection functions cannot be used.