Zoom F8n 8-Input / 10-Track Multi track Field Recorder

The F8n utilizes advanced look-ahead hybrid limiters to provide reliable protection against overloading the A/D converters. By adding a small delay of just one millisecond, the limiters are able to “look ahead” at the input signal and anticipate clipping before it’s recorded. Experienced recordists will surely appreciate the adjustable limiter settings such as knee, threshold, and attack and release times.

The F8n boasts a slew of recording modes and resolutions to choose from—record all eight inputs at a maximum resolution of 24-bit / 192 kHz, record them at up to 96 kHz while printing a stereo mix, or simultaneously record the first four inputs at two different levels to produce safety tracks that can have independent gain, limiting, and more. Also, a pre-record function allows you to capture up to six seconds of audio before you press the record button!

Maximize portability by recording directly to an SD/SDHC/SDXC card (available separately) for up to 512 GB of storage space. Select MP3 format if you’re only recording the stereo mix and really need extended time and minimal file size. Use the BWF-compliant WAV format for uncompressed audio quality and industry-standard file compatibility, or select Ambisonics mode to capture four channels of Ambisonics-compatible audio and have four channels to spare for traditional mics.

Alternatively, use the F8n as an 8-in/4-out USB 2.0 audio interface at up to 24-bit / 96 kHz. Connect it to your computer, launch your preferred audio recording program, then enjoy the combination of the F8n’s premium mic preamps and A/D converters, plus the familiarity and features of your favorite software. For safe, redundant recording at up to 48 kHz, it is possible to operate the F8n as an audio interface while recording to an SD card.

The F8n’s Ambisonics mode offers precision A-to-B decoding and balanced gain linking, enabling you to capture professional spatial audio for VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), and more. Even while using the first four channels for Ambisonics recording, you can utilize channels 5-8 for other signals such as boom and lav mics or an alternate Ambisonics format. A built-in Ambisonics stereo monitor converter allows real-time monitoring of your Ambisonics recording. Download the free Zoom Ambisonics Player software to access user-friendly decoding and editing functions for your 360-audio.

The F8n can accommodate all manner of condenser microphones as well as balanced line-level signals via eight locking Neutrik XLR-1/4″ combo inputs. Eight studio-quality microphone preamps boasting massive gain (up to 75 dB) and ultra-low noise (-127 dBu EIN) ensure that your sound sources will be amplified with sonic accuracy. Select mic/line-level per input, apply 24 or 48 VDC phantom power per input, adjust each input via a dedicated level knob, and handle hot signal levels (up to +4 dBu in mic mode, or up to +24 dBu in line mode).

A Zoom mic capsule input on the F8n accommodates Zoom’s line of interchangeable capsules (available separately) in place of inputs 1-2. With mid-side, X/Y, and shotgun mic capsules to choose from, you can be ready to record music, dialog, or sound effects without carting an external microphone setup.

Outfitted with two TA3 balanced main outputs and an unbalanced 3.5mm submix out, the F8n is a capable field mixer. Since the main and sub outs can be fed from different or identical sources, you can easily route to multiple devices such as a camera, DSLR, mixer, or secondary recorder.

With a transparent and high-output 100mW headphone amplifier tied to a dedicated 1/4″ stereo output, the F8n provides clean, efficient monitoring of pre- or post-fader levels, independent left/right signals, and alerts for battery and recording status.

Whether you keep the F8n powered on all day, or shut it down during breaks, rock-solid sync with video cameras, master time code clocks, or additional audio recorders will be maintained. Accurate synchronization is made possible with the F8n’s high-end time code features. Standard BNC jacks are dedicated for time code I/O, and a Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO) boasts super stable time code accuracy to ±0.2 ppm. You can even jam sync the F8n when constant external time code isn’t present.

If you need extensive external control, Zoom has you covered. For fast and fluid hands-on remote control, the Zoom F-Control (available separately) is ideal. It features smooth 60mm faders, plus tactile controls for trim, pan, arming tracks, transport operations, and more.

For convenient wireless remote control from an iOS mobile device, use the free F-Control app to quickly monitor and tweak levels, operate transport controls, add metadata, and more.

To keep up with the pace of on-location production, the F8n offers several methods of powering. Operate it via eight AA batteries (available separately), power it through a Hirose-connected DC battery pack (available separately), or plug it into a wall outlet with the included 12V power adapter. With up to 12 hours of battery life (AA lithium batteries, 16-bit / 48 kHz, 2-channel recording to SD card), you can rely on the F8n hour after hour.

A mini-USB port on the F8n serves several functions. Connect it to a computer for file backup or live audio streaming, or connect it to an FRC-8 controller (available separately).

Day or night, view vital information such as audio levels, recording time, battery status, and more on the 2.4″ full-color back-lit LCD, which also offers a monochromatic mode. Transport controls (the play/pause and record buttons are illuminated), navigation buttons, and per-channel gain, PFL, and 6-segment meters are presented nearby for sound bag–friendly, hassle-free operations.

Let Zoom’s Auto Mix function simplify your job. This smart software automatically adjusts the levels of your mix to reduce the amount of ambient sound, so you can focus on capturing a well-balanced mix. Since you turn Auto Mix on/off for each channel, you have complete control over where you want Auto Mix to work.

The rugged build quality and compact size make the F8n an excellent choice for location recording on set and in the field. It’s equally well suited for placement in an audio bag or a camera-mounted configuration.

Add metadata such as notes and track/scene names in BWF and iXML formats to easily catalog your files in preparation for loading them into your video or audio editing workstation. Make it a habit to make organization and collaboration in post-production easy.

The F8n has a built-in slate mic for recording comments, as well as the ability to output a variable frequency tone signal for synchronization with miscellaneous video equipment.