Zoom H8 8-input 12-Track Portable Handy Audio Recorder

The Zoom H8 Handy Recorder represents the next step forward in portable recording technology. Boasting four XLR inputs, two XLR/TRS inputs, and ultra-clear microphone preamps, the H8 can capture high-quality audio from almost any source. Like its predecessor, the H8 features an XY mic module and Zoom’s interchangeable capsule system. You can swap out microphone arrays and add extra inputs with optional modules. It records up to 12 tracks in crystal clear 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution, so your listeners feel like they’re right there with you. And to top it all off, the Zoom H8 12-track Handy Recorder doubles as a USB audio interface for recording straight into a DAW. Built for podcasters, sound designers, and musicians, the Zoom H8 could be the last handheld recorder you ever need.

The Podcast App

Switch on the Podcast App, and the H8 changes into a mobile podcast production studio. Use the four Sound Pads to trigger your intro music, advertisements, special effects, and any other sound bites your podcast regularly uses. It comes with 13 pre-loaded sounds, but you can load any sound effect you want onto your SD card. The Podcast App accommodates a maximum of four microphones at once and records a separate track for each input.

The Music App

In the Music App, you can record, process, and mix entire songs. The home screen consists of labeled meters and faders for each input. Simply tap a track that you want to adjust, and you’ll be taken to a new screen with a 3-band EQ, a panning knob, and a send level control. Tap on the effects section, and you get access to each patch consisting of 3 adjustable effects. And if that’s not enough tonal versatility, use Zoom’s Guitar Lab software via the USB output to gain access to extra effects.

The Field App

For on-location recording and sound design, use the Field App. It has large meters for at-a-glance monitoring of every sound source. It gives you quick access to useful tools like compression, low-cut filters, and adjustable phantom power. Finally, click the General menu to access other recorded projects and saved settings. and if you add the BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter to your H8, you can use the free iOS Control App to monitor your levels and record audio from a distance.

Flexible input configurations

The addition of Zoom’s Capsule System 2.0 makes the H8 Handy recorder stand out from the crowd. First seen on the H5, the Capsule System gives the H8 greater functionality and flexibility. The H8 comes with the XYH-6 mic capsule, which consists of matched unidirectional mics in an XY configuration. However, if you’re looking for more flexibility, Zoom offers other microphone configurations and an expander capsule for purchase. Compatible H8 capsules consist of the XAH-8 XY/AB mic, VRH-8 ambisonic mic, and the EXH-8 expander capsule that adds four extra XLR inputs. And if you have an old Zoom H6 lying around, you don’t have to let its capsules go to waste! The H8 offers complete backward compatibility for every H6 mic capsule, which is a great reason to treat yourself to an upgrade.