Description
The Zoom F8 Multi Track Field Recorder is designed for professional and enthusiast recording applications on set and in the field, such as for music, filmmaking, and electronics news gathering (ENG). Designed to be carried by a shoulder strap or in a bag, the unit features eight analog input channels with lockable XLR/TRS combo jacks that provide +75 dB maximum input gain and support for +4 dB inputs with an EIN of -127 dBu or less. It can record at up to 10 tracks simultaneously (channels 1-8 plus a stereo mix), or up to eight channels when recording at the A/D converter’s maximum 24-bit 192 kHz resolution.
Alternatively, you can perform dual channel recording of separate files at lower volume levels to ensure you have backup recordings to use when unexpected loud noises distort the primary recording. A newly designed limiter provides up to 10 dB of headroom. The unit supports SMPTE time code input and output. The included outputs include a powerful 100 mW + 100 mW headphone jacks as well as the MAIN OUT 1/2 and SUB OUT 1/2 jacks so you can send the audio signal to a video camera or other device while monitoring with headphones.
The unit’s internal mixing enables flexible routing and the inclusion of individually selectable +24V/+48V phantom power ensures you can use your favorite condenser microphones.
Power to the recorder can be supplied in one of three ways: via AA batteries, an AC adapter, or a 9 to 16V external DC power supply. Two SDXC card slots can be used simultaneously for recording even longer sessions as well as using the card slots as a card reader when connected to a computer via USB.
As a USB interface, the unit can be used in a 2-in/2-out configuration as well as an 8-in/4-out audio interface (driver required for windows). A built-in slate mic allows you to make voice memos and the unit’s slate tone can be used to confirm specific levels.
Among the most innovative features of the recorder is support for the company’s interchangeable microphone capsules.
- Analog Inputs
- Provides two sets of lockable XLR/TRS combo jacks with EIN of -127 dBu or less, +75 dB maximum input gain and support for +4 dB input.
- Audio Resolution
- Records up to 192 kHz at 24-bit resolution.
- Simultaneous Recording
- Records up to 10 tracks simultaneously with channels 1-8 and a stereo mix (left and right). Up to eight tracks can be recorded at a sampling rate of 192 kHz.
- Dual Channel Recording of Separate Files at Lower Levels
- Records backup recordings at a lower input level to help prevent unexpected loud noises from distorting the recording.
- Limiter
- Provides 10 dB of headroom with a threshold that can be set by the user.
- Supports SMPTE Timecode I/O
- Uses a high-precision oscillator that enables the generation of accurate time code with a discrepancy of less than 0.2 frames per 24 hours.
- Outputs
- Allows you to send the audio signal to a video camera or other device while simultaneously monitoring.
- Mixer Functionality
- Allows for inputs 1-8 to be routed to outputs freely.
- Phantom Power
- Supports +24V and +48V phantom power.
- Three Possible Power Supplies
- Can operate on AA batteries, an AC adaptor, or a 9 to 16 V external DC power supply (not included) with automatic switching between power supplies.
- Two SDXC Card Slots
- Allows for recording on 2 SD cards if possible and support for SDXC cards enables recording for even longer than before in addition to using the unit as a card reader by connecting to a computer using USB.
- USB Audio Interface Capabilities with up to 8 Ins and 4 Outs
- Allows the unit to be used as a 2-in/2-out audio interface as well as a 8-in/40out audio interface (driver required for Windows, not required for Mac).
- Built-In Microphone
- Works as both a slate mic as well as a tool for voice memos.
- Zoom Mic Capsule Functionality
- Supports the company’s line of interchangeable mic capsules that can be used instead of inputs 1/2.
