Zoom H8 Overview

Zoom H8 8-Input / 12-Track Portable Handy Recorder: The Ultimate Audio Solution

The Zoom H8 8-Input / 12-Track Portable Handy Recorder is a groundbreaking device tailored for podcasters, musicians, sound designers, and field recorders. With its versatile app-driven interface, powerful features, and seamless connectivity, the Zoom H8 sets a new standard for portable audio recording. Discover why this recorder is the perfect choice for your audio needs.

The Zoom H8 offers unmatched flexibility with its three distinct modes: Podcast, Music, and Field Recording. These modes instantly optimize the intuitive touchscreen interface for specific tasks, ensuring an efficient and user-friendly experience. With support for up to eight simultaneous input signals, this recorder is a versatile powerhouse for diverse audio recording scenarios.

Lightweight and Portable Design

Weighing just 0.8 kg, the H8 is designed for convenience. Whether you’re holding it, mounting it on a mic stand, or attaching it to a camera, its ergonomic build and lightweight structure make it the perfect companion for on-the-go recording.

Bundled Software for Enhanced Audio Editing

The included licenses for Steinberg’s Cubase LE and WaveLab Cast provide a comprehensive toolkit for editing, refining, and publishing your recordings with professional precision.

Features

• Three app-driven modes for optimized workflows: Podcast, Music, and Field Recording.
• An interchangeable X/Y stereo mic capsule is used for flexible recording options.
• Four XLR mic inputs with pads and +48V phantom power.
• Two XLR-1/4″ combo mic/line/Hi-Z inputs.
• Intuitive 2.4-inch color touchscreen.
• Onboard compressor, limiter, and low-cut filter.
• Powered by AA batteries, USB, or an AC adapter.
• Supports SDXC cards up to 512GB.
• Stereo safety track recording to avoid distortion.

Revolutionary App-Driven Interface

The 2.4-inch color touchscreen makes the Zoom H8 incredibly easy to use. Its three dedicated modes cater to different recording scenarios:

1. Podcast App

• Access four mic channels and two sound pad channels effortlessly.
• Utilize 13 pre-loaded sound effects or upload your custom effects from an SD card.
• Perfect for creating professional-quality podcasts with minimal setup.

2. Music App

• Record up to 10 input tracks with ease.
• Use EQ and compression to enhance your recordings.
• Connect to Zoom’s Guitar Lab for access to a wide range of amps and effects.

3. Field App

• Ideal for location sound and sound design.
• Large, easy-to-read meters prevent audio clipping.
• Quickly adjust input types, filtering, and other key settings.

Advanced Microphone and Capsule System

X/Y Stereo Microphone Capsule

The included X/Y stereo mic capsule is equipped with two unidirectional mics, capable of handling sound levels up to 136 dB. Perfect for speech, concerts, or environmental recordings, this capsule ensures pristine audio capture without the need for external mics.

Zoom Capsule System 2.0

Expand your recording capabilities with interchangeable capsules. Options include:

• VRH-8: Ambisonics mic capsule for immersive 360-degree audio.
• EXH-8: Adds four XLR inputs for a total of 10 input channels.
• Compatible with existing Zoom mic capsules for unmatched versatility.

Effortless Operability and Connectivity

Intuitive Controls

The front panel features ergonomic buttons for record, play, and stop, along with individual gain knobs and pad switches for each input. A hold switch prevents accidental operation during critical moments.

Simultaneous Input Channels

With four XLR inputs, two XLR-1/4″ combo inputs, and a 3.5mm stereo input, the H8 accommodates various microphone types, line-level sources, and instruments.

Multichannel Recording and Overdubbing

Record up to 12 tracks simultaneously or overdub layers to create complex audio arrangements. The internal mixdown function lets you blend tracks into a stereo file with adjustable levels and panning.

Versatile Recording and Storage Options

SD Card Recording

Store recordings directly on SD, SDHC, or SDXC cards (up to 512GB). The H8 supports 16-bit/44.1 kHz to 24-bit/96 kHz WAV formats, ensuring high-quality, uncompressed audio.

Audio Interface Functionality

Use the H8 as a 12-in/2-out USB audio interface for your Mac or Windows computer. Connect to an iPad with an optional Apple Camera Connection Kit for mobile editing.

Power and Portability

The H8 runs on four AA batteries, delivering up to 20 hours of recording time. Alternatively, power it via USB or an optional AC adapter for extended sessions. Its rugged design ensures reliability, whether handheld or mounted on a tripod or DSLR.

Professional-Grade Signal Processing

The Zoom H8 features onboard compression, limiting, and low-cut filtering to polish your recordings. Pre-record, auto-record, and backup recording functions ensure you capture every detail without distortion or missed moments.

Additional Features

• Remote Control: Use an iPhone or iPad with a BTA-1 Bluetooth module for remote operation.
• Audio Software Integration: Seamlessly connect with podcast directories and video editing software for streamlined workflows.
• Built-In Speaker and Outputs: A mono speaker and 3.5mm outputs enable quick playback and monitoring.

The Zoom H8 8-Input / 12-Track Portable Handy Recorder is the ultimate solution for creators seeking exceptional audio quality, intuitive functionality, and versatility. Whether you’re recording podcasts, producing music, or capturing field sounds, the H8 empowers you to achieve professional results with ease.

FAQs

1. What is the maximum number of simultaneous tracks I can record with the Zoom H8?

The Zoom H8 allows you to record up to 12 tracks simultaneously.

2. Can I use the Zoom H8 as an audio interface for my computer?

Yes, the Zoom H8 functions as a 12-in/2-out USB audio interface for Mac and Windows computers. You can also connect it to an iPad using an optional Apple Camera Connection Kit.

3. Does the Zoom H8 support external microphones?

Yes, the Zoom H8 includes four XLR mic inputs, two XLR-1/4″ combo mic/line/Hi-Z inputs, and a 3.5mm stereo input for connecting a variety of external microphones and instruments.

4. What type of memory cards does the Zoom H8 support?

The Zoom H8 supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards with a capacity of up to 512GB.

5. How is the Zoom H8 powered?

The Zoom H8 can be powered by four AA batteries, USB, or an optional AC adapter. It provides up to 20 hours of recording time on batteries.

6. What is the purpose of the app-driven interface?

The Zoom H8 features three app-driven modes—Podcast, Music, and Field Recording—that optimize the touchscreen interface for specific tasks, making the recorder highly versatile and user-friendly.

7. Is the included X/Y microphone capsule sufficient for professional recordings?

Yes, the included X/Y stereo mic capsule can handle sound levels up to 136 dB and is ideal for speech, concerts, and environmental recordings.

8. Can I add more inputs to the Zoom H8?

Yes, with the EXH-8 capsule, you can add four more XLR inputs, bringing the total to 10 input channels.

9. What software is included with the Zoom H8?

The Zoom H8 comes with licenses for Steinberg’s Cubase LE and WaveLab Cast for professional audio editing and production.

10. Does the Zoom H8 have onboard audio processing features?

Yes, the recorder includes built-in compression, limiting, and low-cut filtering to enhance audio quality. It also offers pre-record, auto-record, and backup recording features.

11. Is remote control possible with the Zoom H8?

Yes, you can remotely control the Zoom_H8 using an iPhone or iPad with the BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter (sold separately).

12. Can I use the Zoom H8 for live streaming?

Yes, the H8’s USB audio interface functionality makes it suitable for live streaming and other real-time audio applications.

13. Is the Zoom H8 compatible with other Zoom mic capsules?

Yes, the Zoom_H8 is compatible with existing Zoom mic capsules, allowing for expanded recording possibilities.

What’s in the Box

• Zoom H8 8-Input / 12-Track Portable Handy Recorder
• Zoom XYH-6 X/Y Microphone Capsule
• Four AA Batteries
• Download Licenses for Steinberg Cubase LE and WaveLab Cast