Audio Recorders for film, video, & podcast production - 2022 edition

[@arnoldmunthe7846]

I have listened to most of your posts over the years, and bought a few of your tutorials, and this was by far THE BEST summary of the field today. Simply WOW, and a huge thank you. It seems the production companies all over the world are setting lower and lower standards, and you are doing the opposite - setting high standards. I learned more in an hour today than going through endless reviews and tutorials over the past six months. Great Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Arnold 🙏

[@KevinAroni-uz5rl]

Same

[@BrendanEvan]

One video to rule them all One vid to show them One video to rate them all And in the audio help them! Thanks Curtis you’re the man

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Brendan!

[@vidyoustrm1442]

The way you give us access to all this information about the world of sound. Surely it takes you a sacrifice. Dear Curtis, Thank You. May God Bless You

[@curtisjudd]

🙏

[@curtisjudd]

Correction on the ZOOM F3, F6, and F8nPro, when in line level mode, the inputs' max level is +24dBu. It is only in mic mode that the max input level is +4dBu. If you plan to record from a sound board, of course you should switch the inputs to line level mode and that should be fine as long as the engineer operating the sound board does not saturate or clip the mixer's main mix. Also, if you are going to record an extraordinarily loud sound with a microphone, you also might want to switch to line level mode to give yourself a bit more headroom. Note that the MixPre's max input levels are +14 dBu in mic mode and +28dB in line level mode. That's a bit more headroom. That's a potential advantage for MixPre if you record a lot of REALLY wide dynamic range audio.

[@film2375]

Max input level in Zoom F2 is -5.5dbu. What it's meaning? What's difference from Zoom f3? If I use shotgun mic like Sennheiser mke 600 with zoom f2 is there any audio quality difference other than phantom power?

[@patrickdonegan9559]

@@film2375 notice the connector on the F2.

[@DiveHard]

Your videos are among the most informative and helpful on KZbin - thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

🙏

[@matahari1576]

Congratulations for 200.000 subscribers. Thanks for your factual , friendly and „ unhysteric“ style of presentation.

[@curtisjudd]

Thank you, Mata Hari.

[@andreimanilkin5339]

When I see Curtis, first I like, then I watch! It doesn't matter what the topic is. Everything is interesting, everything is useful.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Andrei, glad you found it useful.

[@DanielWayShadow]

Amusing thing, I'm a film school student and the story you tell at 4:05 - 5:04 exactly happened to me. With that exact recorder + exact mic + exact problem. Newbie ditch warning folks!

[@SlavGuns]

oh and woot woot, FREAKING AMAZING! CONGRATS ON 200K!

[@JonathanCabot]

There's a lot of good stuff in this video, but the #1 thing is how good you make this video sound!

[@curtisjudd]

🎙️🔈🎶

[@davidfirth1]

What I like about your explanations is that while you do work professionally and have a more critical ear for noise floor, etc., you don't stomp all over the cheaper gear like the Zoom H6 or smaller Tascam units. For a hobbyist or someone with no need for professional-level results, the lower end and/or older gear can be very beneficial. You leave the door open for people to be in that space. Thanks

[@dwftube]

Wow, that's a pretty comprehensive overview. Lots of useful info for people at all price brackets.👍

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@brokeforever]

The audio and video quality on this channel is the best I've seen ever, even the oldest videos have top notch audio. I don't think there's any other channel on KZbin that even comes close.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks 👍

[@hamradiowithkevin]

This video was so incredibly helpful. Thank you Curtis for making Videos like this. The information and language you use, helps beginner level users like me to understand the concepts better.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@rajubhaivyas1450]

Amazing information and products... knowledge for audio.. recording... thanks for vlog 🙏🏻🌺🌺 ..

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@sidehop]

Wow, I absolutely love how you really take the time to explain any jargon that anyone new may not know instead of us trying to Google and research further. A great teacher, I must say!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@dlep2004]

Thanks for the comprehensive info, clear and concise. And the production quality is top notch as always, a pleasure to watch.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Pete.

[@andreforde4319]

Thanks Curtis! It's always an education, and you've advanced me just by sharing your knowledge.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@linda_lawson]

Curtis, you have outdone yourself! This is a tremendous resource. Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Linda!

[@tetraskele9621]

Wow! The expression about some people "knowing their stuff" describes persons of your caliber. As someone who has spent a lot of time teaching, you're a pleasure to listen to. Great shows (watched many of the), wide ranging and yet (magically) succinct!. THIS review is amazing. It cleared up a lot of questions for me. I dabble in sound design and have done some mixing in my day, but most of my recording is for my own small productions only. In this overview you answered many questions I would not even have known to ask. 1,000 thanks and best wishes the 2022 Solstice season.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks so much, Tetraskele. Best wishes to you, too!

[@cruisingforone]

I really appreciate you describing the corporate philosophies between Zoom and Sound Devices. That helped a great deal, I keep going back and forth between them.

[@curtisjudd]

Glad it helped. Understanding that makes it so much easier to understand the design decisions they each make for their products.

[@mattgray9297]

You have taught me so much over the years. Thank you so much!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Matt 👍

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Matt 👍

[@billsmith5166]

Just your summary is better than 99% of the videos out there.

[@curtisjudd]

🙏

[@ahmedthabet8200]

Keep doing these reviews and you will be on the top of a WANTED LIST ..😀 ...WELL DONE MAN

[@curtisjudd]

👍🙏

[@乾淨核能]

Thank you again for sharing your opinions/experience on all the recorders!! Helps a lot!!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@ww1www]

What a great overview from budget to the top end... I loved it, like all of your other videos.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@Onlinepmcourses]

What a great video. Looking to upgrade my 7 year old H5, but can I buy an F8N or a Mix Pre 3 here in the UK? No supplies to be had from reputable dealers. I'm curious if it's a global supply problem or the impact of Britain's Brexit decision...

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, global supply chain issues, but MixPres are now arriving in small quantities.

[@SoundSpeeding]

Yes, it is worldwide problem due to supply chain issues. Perhaps look around also for the Zoom F6 as well? That's a good one.

[@Onlinepmcourses]

@@SoundSpeeding F6 would suit me well, functionality-wise (better value for my needs), but I don't like the form factor. I also like the dual SD cards feature on the F8n pro. My H5 casing has gone sticky and nasty, but it still works fine, so I shall be patient for the F8n Pro to be available. It's mostly a vanity upgrade!

[@SoundSpeeding]

​@@Onlinepmcourses fair enough, the Zoom F8 Series is a much better choice than a F6 or god forbid an H5. Don't hesitate to get a Zoom F8n (or maybe even an original F8) if you see a good deal secondhand, and can't be bothered waiting for a F8n Pro. I'd honestly prefer a F8n over a F8n Pro.

[@Onlinepmcourses]

@@SoundSpeeding thank you. While I make a good chunk of my living from the videos I make(for YT and courses), I am far from a sound pro and do all my video and audio for myself, as speaker. So assist features like the 32-bit float make the newer model highly appealing. And there is something appealing too about Curtis's characterization (in my words) of the Zoom F series as top-end amateur kit, compared to the Mixpre series as bottom-end pro kit. That said, I also follow you. So I know the F* is very much good enough for serious pro work too - which is a bonus to me. I love my H5 and it very much meets my YT-level needs. If the plastic coating were not deteriorating, I wouldn't consider upgrading. Maybe that's why they use that material! 7 years to learn to love the brand, then a little nudge to upgrade.

[@DonBurnette]

Can’t wait to see you review the Yamaha DM3 to see where it fits into the spectrum. Awesome video, thanks for doing these

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, the DM3 looks really nice. I'll need to save up a bit for that.

[@theearwyrm]

Thanks for the video! As someone working with pro-sumer devices (namely the Zoom F8n Pro), It's very nice to hear about the next levels up for big budget recorders as information on them tends to be less widely known and somewhat harder to find as most articles and such really focus more on that pro-sumer level.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@alantuttphotography]

Absolutely incredible. You have definitely covered the gamut, at least as far as anything that is likely to be used for film and video. For bands and other live events, there are additional options, but even there, you mentioned the Zoom LiveTrak series. Personally, I have been quite happy with my Tascam recorders, including the DR-70D, DR-680 (both original and MKII), and the DR-44wl handheld unit. Somehow, I don't have a problem with the NTG2 mic on any of these.

[@LearnLightAndSoundSessions]

Thanks for sharing, Alan. Yes, the main issue with the NTG2 is the H4n. That combination just didn't work well together.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@joenicklo]

An hour long video of recorders by Curtis Judd...YEP! I'm watching!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@NullUndEins]

Just donated 10€. Amazing, high quality content over the years. Thank you so much

[@curtisjudd]

Thank you so much! 🙏

[@stevegeorge7773]

This is fantastic! I have always thought this style of video to support your other long videos was much much needed. It was one reason why I hadn't watched as many of your videos. A tag video of others that cover your subjects it a great idea. Thanks!!!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Steve.

[@AlexanderGoroshilov]

I want to record myself playing oboe and piano. Sometimes only oboe solo. I need as simple setup as possible with less postprocessing. And I would like to use built in microphones. What device would you suggest?

[@curtisjudd]

Tascam X6 perhaps?

[@50450720]

Thanks Curtis, this was a great round up of the most commonly available recorders, just what i was looking for. I really appreciate the time you spent to produce this.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@pathegartyfilmssongs9487]

Greetings from Ireland. Great review thanks. I use the Zoom H8 and find it excellent. Very quiet audio and plenty of gain if required. I use it 100% in field mode. My mics are Sennheiser Mke600 with Rode blimp etc. Behringer B-5 Condensers (bad press I know but they are actually very good) and recently the Hollyland Lark Max (Excellent in my opinion) I am a hobbyist doing some local documentary and short films. Thank you once again for all your detailed and easy to understand reviews.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@Sc0rphionx]

Super subscribed.... Never thought you will know so much and not sell yourself to brands. Kudos.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@RobbyHuang]

The new intro track is slammin!!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@McStabberStudios]

@Curtis Judd - Have you looked at the Behringer X-Air series of Digital Mixers? This year I added the Behringer XR18 to my recording/streaming studio and found the 18x18 Bi-direction ASIO over USB Interface + Onboard FX Rack + "Dugan Style" Automixing + Full Bus Routing to be EXTREMELY handy.

[@curtisjudd]

Haven't used them directly, but have talked with several others who have used them. Glad to hear its working well for you!

[@KTHKUHNKK]

Good Lord it sure does get complicated and highly technical. I'm glad you know it and can explain it. I am still at the h4n zoom pro level. And I will stay there for the rest of my life. Great stuff Curtis you really know your stuff. Keith Kuhn

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks, Keith.

[@kqschwarz]

Nobody does audio reviews like you. All the best.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks, Karl.

[@Mr_A_Mia]

Thank you Curtis. Enjoyed this with early morning coffee

[@curtisjudd]

☕️

[@PracticalAIVictor]

Keep up the great work Curtis

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Victor.

[@edemduku3391]

information overload! links, timestamp, links to reviews of devices mentioned, i'm amazed. spot on.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@Maxim.ID4HO]

I enjoyed your presentation of the information. So much experience condensed in to a quick clip. Thank you

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks, Carl.

[@andrewp1513]

This was fantastic to watch! (Except being reminded of the sound devices usb backup. What a headache it is waiting for that all the time!)

[@andrewp1513]

Really nice to get a glimpse of some pro level recorders too. Thank you

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Andrew. 🙏

[@SoundSpeeding]

Don't worry, I have the same headache waiting on my WAV files to be written on my professional grade Zaxcom recorder.... !!

[@andrewp1513]

@@SoundSpeeding😩 Really?! Thanks for letting me know. If I ever upgraded and found that waiting for me….🤬🤬🤬👍

[@dadbeatdead]

The statement about not getting work if you own Zoom vs Sound Devices is 100% accurate in my experience, I have Zoom gear that I use and rent out, and I’ve been turned down multiple times or had cancellations when they found mixers who brought SD equipment with them. Also my Zoom gear has zero rentals in 2 years even at low rates. I haven’t really upgraded my sound gear as much as I have my video gear and lenses, but selling the Zoom recorders for Sound Devices is definitely in the works for me.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for sharing.

[@Mike0193Azul]

Thank you so much! Such an in-depth and incredibly helpful and detailed comparison lecture 💚 Curtis Judd is the best for anything audio/visual 🎥

[@curtisjudd]

You're so welcome!

[@patrickchase5614]

I've tested the Rode Wireless Go II and DJI Mic simultaneously with Sanken COS11Ds (two of them mounted side-by-side on a dual clip), and the Wireless Go II's noise floor was ~4 dB better even after fine tuning the gain on the DJI. They were recorded through Rode VXLR+ adapters into a MixPre 10 II.

[@curtisjudd]

👍 yes, just got to testing the self noise performance on the DJI and I’m finding similar results.

[@patrickchase5614]

@@curtisjudd I think that's mostly indicative of the Rode Wireless II's self noise being surprisingly good. It appears to be below the EINs of typical lavs (I've tried B6, DPA4060, and COS11D so far), which explains/supports Rode's decision not to expose Tx gain control. It's no substitute for a pro wireless setup, but it's audio quality is remarkable for what it is IMO.

[@Scripture-Man]

I've watched a few of your videos now and they are outstanding - this one is epic! I know you said we'll probably want to skip to the relevant parts of such a long video, but it's hard to stop watching as it's just so packed full of fascinating and pertinent information, highly educational. You're very easy to listen to and I love how honest and critical you are. So THANKS for making these videos! I've subbed! :-) As an aspiring KZbinr, I'm still considering my purchase. I really just want the most basic, cheap field recorder which provides a clean sound with none of the irritating processing (aka programming) built into consumer devices like the H1.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks, Lee.

[@Riddict]

Great info! One that you didn't cover in the podcast section is the Tascam Mixcast 4. In my experience it holds its own against the original Rodecaster. Great channel, I just discovered you recently! Subscribed 🍻

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks! Yes, that’s one I haven’t had a chance to try. 👍

[@aov_james]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience!! 14:30 I'm planning to buy one of those tentacle track&sync sets, what other mic would you recommend to go with?

[@curtisjudd]

Sanken COS11D, perhaps.

[@SoundSpeeding]

DPA 6060 is the "gold standard" in the industry. Sanken COS11D is the old "industry standard" before the 6060. Deity W.Lav Pro is a great budget option to get instead.

[@Sosha666]

@@SoundSpeeding how does the wlav do for things like induction stoves and electric beer pumps? They're almost on my shopping list .

[@DanielSRosehill]

Unbelievably thorough. Thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@akugel4529]

Thanks a lot for this very very huge detailed video. Now i exactly know what i want, what i really need and finally what i can afford! ;-)

[@skakdosmer]

By far the best of these audio recorder videos from you to date. Thank you. In 2015 when I got interested in audio for video, just about every professional photographer who also did KZbin videos agreed that the Zoom H4n was the one to get! "A must have!" was a phrase I heard used. So I bought one, and only months later a lot of people were putting it down. It seemed suddenly to have become almost a "should get rid of" device. I found that hilarious, because surely the H4n hasn't deteriorated - it must be the very same as it was when everybody was praising it! No worse today than it was in 2009, better in fact because the firmware has been upgraded. But 2015 was also the year when the Zoom F8 was introduced, and those who bought it were probably spoiled by its preamps. I bought it because I needed more channels, but it's still my opinion that unless you have such specific needs, there's no real reason to replace old gear that still works well enough.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Lau. Yes the original F8 is still a great recorder 7 years later.

[@SoundSpeeding]

The F8 was a crazy game changer, the biggest leap forward we've ever seen in the prosumer audio world for film/tv. Still great to use!

[@MarcoBattocchia]

Thank you for sharing all this knowledge! Since I own a rode podcaster, do you think is decent solution to use it as audio recorder for KZbin videos? I will connect a rode ntg 5 to that. The alternative is a zoom h5.

[@LearnLightAndSoundSessions]

Yes, the RODECaster should do the job for recording KZbin videos at home. But if you need more portability, that's where field recorders are a better option.

[@MarcoBattocchia]

@@LearnLightAndSoundSessions Thank you for the explanation and for taking the time to reply, appreciate it.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@EmonHassan]

Looking to upgrade my audio recording set up and this was extremely helpful. Thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@barefootaxel4847]

Thanks for the fantastic overview. I personally have the Zoom H4n, H5, F1, F4 and the MixPre 3 II. I personally prefer the MP3 for most applications. It sounds a bit better than the F4 and the menu is so much easier to operate. Electricity isn't an issue as I use it indoors and have it plugged in.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@MrKuschelTieger]

Thank you so much for this Video. I think the Zoom F8n is my Favourite.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@sanjidahmed]

please sir help me 🙏. i want to buy one of this the Zoom h1n and Tascam dr-05x. i want to use mini shortgun microphone like (Movo vxr10, Boya by mm1+, Rode videomicro). My question is the TASCAM DR-05X has audio "plugin power ON/OFF SETTINGS" but the ZOOM H1N don't have. how much power is provieded by TASCAM DR-05X when the "PLUGIN POWER is ON". By the way as mension in the manual of ZOOM H1N it can provide 2.5V so what what about the TASCAM? is it provide the same power or more? WHICE ONE WILL BE BETTER for external recording also cosider the self noise?

[@curtisjudd]

They’re about the same and both provide enough power for most mics which need plugins power.

[@sanjidahmed]

@@curtisjudd Thank you sir. at 3:33 you said that the h1n will be good choice for lav mic. so can i buy the h1n over dr-05x? my main focus is lav or mini shortgun mic.

[@curtisjudd]

@@sanjidahmed I haven't used the DR-05x, only the original non-x version. I was happy with the H1n for using it as a pocket recorder with an external microphone.

[@insanejughead]

I'll be back to watch this after work! Thanks in advance Curtis.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@dag221]

Can't wait to watch this video on repeat while I'm at work over the next year. The only thing you were missing was the Sony PCM-D10 recorder which is the one I just picked up to go with my Mix-Pre 3 II. Seems like decent unit so far. I went for Sony reliability and quality over gimmicky features in some of the other units.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@TradingConDavid]

Watched the whole thing, now I'm an audio recorder expert!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@BreezeA]

Great. Thanks for your hard work bringing all these info to us.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@TDCIYB77]

Yeah! Have been hoping for a 2022 edition! Thanks, amazing quality as always!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Steven.

[@rickymcc8624]

Thanks Curtis for a comprehensive current take on what's out there in terms of recorder hardware and qualified recommendations. Handy to keep abreast of newer developments, even though I'm not looking to upgrade my own sound kit currently. You remain my 'go to' source for reviews of different kit. I'd now hesitate buying new kit without first understanding your 'expert' perspective. I doubt I would have invested in a MixPre 6ii, or really known why I should have, without your earlier opinions. I'm just an amateur photographer, trying to get the best sounds I can for self development into video and AV. Your earlier advice has proved 'sound' too for microphone choices and radio transmission. Now that I own great kit, I need to practice more to get better at using it.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Ricky - happy recording!

[@CheqkoO95]

This might be a stupid question but would anyone use a Rodecaster pro as a “field recorder” or voice over. I am using the first version now and I feel like there is still noise but perhaps I am using the wrong mic for Voice Overs (podmic) If anyone has tips I would greatly appreciate it 😅

[@jgurtz]

I've got the pro 2 and my sense is that it's physically too big and unwieldy to carry around in a bag. However, you could make some kind of custom pelican case setup for use on a cart. You'd need to deal with creating some kind of custom battery system from scratch for it.

[@curtisjudd]

It depends on what you mean by field recorder. I agree with @Jason that it wouldn't work well in a traditional mixing bag. But it can certainly be carried to a gig and operate from a table or cart.

[@KF7IJZ]

FYI re the Zoom F3 - the max input is only +4dBU when input is set to Mic - they offer +24dBU when inputs are set to line level. Verified from the specs in the manual and the modular synth concert I recorded this weekend!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks 🙏

[@radiaetor4408]

@@curtisjudd thank you for all the knowledge that you share with all of us! I would just hate for people to miss out on this really great little recorder

[@griffmoss2549]

What an incredible channel! Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

🙏

[@deaafrizal]

always like this topic 🤗🤗

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@jcescobarbravo]

Es una completisima enciclopedia de grabadoras para video producciones. gracias por compartir

[@curtisjudd]

🙏

[@MarkusFinholt]

Absolutely invaluable video Curtis. Thank you for taking the time to do these, in a way that us audio noobs can understand!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@KarsonsChannel]

Hi Curtis, is there anyway you could do a review of the ninja v +?

[@curtisjudd]

I don't have one on hand and generally find that I don't need external recorders with the Canon C70 which is my main camera these days. But I'm thinking about maybe adding another hybrid camera and if I end up adding an external recorder, it'll probably be a Ninja V+ and I would review it at that point. 👍

[@KarsonsChannel]

@@curtisjudd thank you!

[@imark7777777]

That was an awesome run through of everything.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks.

[@elizeusantos93]

Great video! I look foward to see you taking a looking into Tascam DR 10 pro, it is a 32 bit float recorder, also remote moitoring.

[@curtisjudd]

Did it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eYaokJ19aql-j5Yfeature=shared

[@hellounclesim]

This is the best comparison on KZbin. Just what I needed! Thank you, Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@SoundSpeeding]

My brief opinion/rankings (from the perspective of a professional production sound mixer, who has a wide range of experiences from the lowest budget indie/student film sets to the biggest budget netflix series / blockbuster movies ): All handheld recorders... don't bother, in fact, actively avoid them! As they're so extremely unsuitable for location sound recording for film/tv. Especially when there is something else available that is so much better and probably cheaper too... The Tascam DR60Dmk2. Don't settle for anything less! (well, ok, you could get the even cheaper mk1 secondhand?) The Tascam DR70D is only slightly more though. (or for a bit more, and adds timecode, is the Tascam DR701D. But it appears it has been discontinued) But if at all possible (I understand for some people, the DR60D might be all their budget allows) I'd avoid all these consumer recorders which lack timecode, as a proper prosumer ones with timecode and high quality preamps are exceptionally affordably now in 2022! We live in an amazing era, to have audio gear that's so accessible, which wasn't an option when I was starting out. Let's look at these, the prosumer recorders I'd recommend: Zoom F6. Zoom F8n Pro. (the original F8n is just as good, in fact I'd prefer it! The original original F8 is ok too, not too much worse than the F8n. But if you have professional aspirations just get the F8n) There is also the F4, which I loved, but it has sadly been discontinued 😞 And there is the Sound Devices MixPre series. Originally the first gen MixPres at launch were quite inferior to the Zoom F Series then. As I feel Sound Devices rushed out the MixPres to respond quickly to the earth shattering game changer that was the Zoom F8. But since then the MixPres have had a lot of firmware updates, and improved Gen2 hardware, and I feel MixPres are easily on par with the Zoom F Series. Is a coin flip which to get, down to personal taste. Although the extreme small size of the MixPre3 does make it the obvious choice for anybody who wants to use it with/under their DSLR/Mirrorless camera! Just go get the MixPre3 asap. And the MixPre10 costs so substantially more than a Zoom F8n, then it is hard to justify the MixPre10 for anybody starting out (which is most people who are considering a MixPre or F Series). As you're likely very short on cash, and there are so many other areas in your sound kit that need those $$$ instead! So why spend extra for the MixPre for no real net benefit over the F8n?? And if you're comparing a recorder that's more comparable in price to the F8n, the MixPre6.. I just think that's too unfair to the MixPre6! As the F8n is just so much better designed for the sound mixer overall. The MixPre6 is a fantastic *secondary* recorder, to supplement your 633/833/etc , but for primary usage as your only recorder? I'd take the F8n every time! Now I haven't mentioned any professional recorders yet. But I'll just quickly mention the cheapest model from each of the four brands (the only four brands that exist for us), and you can research them more yourself (or feel free to ask me any questions!). Have listed them in order of popularity: Sound Devices 833 Zaxcom Nova2 Aaton Cantar Mini Sonosax SX-R4+ Oh, and a quick final point about bodypack recorders: would you record your video without ever looking at your camera's image?? If you say "yes" ( to be fair... I've kinda done this a few times, such as when running 5x cameras filming a wedding ceremony! I'll set up a couple of unnmaned cameras, then cross my fingers and wish for luck), then bodypack recorders are fine for you. But if you say "no", why on earth would you treat your audio like this??? You wouldn't record you video blind. Don't record your audio deaf!

[@curtisjudd]

Wow - thanks for the TED talk and insights! 😀

[@jallantan]

The recording will be used to document the discussions. Any recommendations for mics?

[@curtisjudd]

Budget?

[@ngocehgayabebas2118]

Wow. Very very very deep explanation. God bless you sir

[@curtisjudd]

🙏

[@florianmertl]

Hi Curtis, awesome overview, thank you! It reminds me that I do have too many audio recorders as well ;)

[@curtisjudd]

🙃

[@ShinilPayamal]

Thanks for the video. Watched till the end. Really helpful.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Shinil.

[@HuSmokin]

I noticed some videos have a thank button or something where you send money directly to the content creator. Is that something that can be enabled here? I haven’t even watched the full video yet but knowing you and your content… I’d like to contribute.

[@curtisjudd]

Donation link in the description where KZbin doesn’t take 30% of the donation. 🙏

[@ahriik]

Curtis Judd: The Movie.

[@curtisjudd]

Popcorn required.

[@jarikangas1254]

Thanks again for the good video. I have watched several of your videos over the years. I've been using the Behringer X Air XR18 mixer for the podcast, Livestream, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, multichannel field recording etc. A lot of versatile features, USB connection with a computer, allowing multichannel recording direct eg. Reaper or Audition. You can use clean audio or Pre EQ, Post EQ Pre Fade, and so on. I've been very comfortable with the versatility. Via USB, you can also import sound or music directly from your computer to the desired channel, etc. A lot of routing possibilities, each channel Noise Gate, Equalizer, Compressor, and so on. You can control it with a PC, Laptop, Tablet, or Phone. Behringer X Air XR18 mixer does not belong directly to these categories, but using like, is easy and flexible. For small field recordings, it is absolutely too big. For smaller field recording I use Zoom H6.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for sharing. Sounds like a nice option!

[@skakdosmer]

I've heard others report that using expensive gear helped them to be better respected by their clients. There's a wonderful interview with the famous Tony Faulkner where he tells that he always used the largest microphones he had for recording a certain conductor. Not because they would necessarily sound better, but because the conductor then "knew that he would sound like a king" and therefore gave a much better performance.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@robertharker]

For a new or student video/film recordist, I strongly recommend the Tascam DR-70D recorder. Used prices including shipping on ebay range from under $100 to $125-$150. Over $150 and you paid too much. Is this a pro recorder? No. Will it allow you to capture high quality recordings? Yes with some care. Will it allow you to learn your craft. Definitely yes. If you start getting paying work, you will out grow it. It will become your "B" (backup) rig you carry in case you drop your primary recorder into a pond or pool. I like the DR70D over the Zoom H6 because of the form factor with all controls on a front side and connectors on the adjacent sides. Just like most pro recorders. I used 3 trade show lanyards to mount it on my chest. Two looped over my head attached to the two side rails and one double ended lanyard looped around my back to hold it close to my chest. Feels like a pro recorder bag sitting on my chest. A lot of bang for just a few bucks. What are people's recommendations for low cost semi-pro wireless lav mic setups? Rode wireless go II kits with lav mics run about $350. Not cheap. Other options?

[@curtisjudd]

I agree. 👍

[@SoundSpeeding]

Yes, I agree the Tascam DR70D is easily the best four channel consumer recorder at that price point if buying new. And even cheaper if buying secondhand! Easily hands down preferable over the H4n/H5/H6. But I strongly strongly STRONGLY recommend stretching to the Zoom F6, as it is shockingly cheap for what it is! Imagine if you could buy say a Sony FX6 for the price of a Sony a6300?? That's basically what happened with the Zoom F Series! They're bringing us entry level pro features at bargain priced consumer level pricing for cheap. For wireless, I'm afraid the Rodes are already insanely dirt cheap. But they're only consumer grade quality. Maaaaybe consider the diety pocket wireless? They're US$169 each. But at least you get a locking connector! Which is a MAJOR flaw about the Rode Go. And the Deitys are compatible with all their other wireless products, which the Rodes also can't do. I'd highly recommend that you step up to at least prosumer grade wireless, even if just a student filmmaker. The Sony UWP-D21 are the best prosumer wireless you can buy new for sub US$1K. Easily a better buy than Sennheiser G4 wireless. Otherwise look at the secondhand Lectrosonics from the 1990's / 2000's. They are indeed old! But even better than prosumer Sonys.

[@enfacedetoi]

WOW all this for free, thank you soooo much. I still got my Juicedlink RA333 :) good gear :)

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@MylesBelland]

Wow, Curtis this is fantastic!!!! I can't believe I started watching this casually over breakfast and ended up watching about 85% in one sitting 😂 Your professional delivery and opinions are always a welcome resource to dig into. Small aside then question. I'm a filmmaker on the Director/Cinematographer side of things. I fell into the Zoom H4n camp when starting out and never upgraded. For some reason my Zoom H4n is now very sticky, lol (it feels like the rubber coating has melted and is just falling apart) and the headphone jack is busted. So I need an upgrade. I have a Canon C70 and Sennheiser 416. I'm looking for a recorder I can use to compliment these tools and that can take about 2-4 inputs for interview and basic lavaliere recording when I don't have a sound recordist, and also for some basic event work (sound board). From your information I am in the Zoom F6 and the Sound Devices Mix Pre 3 area, leaning to Zoom F6 because of battery life. I'm not an audio guy, but my question is, could you use an attenuator to lower the levels coming into the F6 to overcome it's line signal issue? That seems to be the biggest limiter. I also dig the size that I can fit it in a backpack as I usually work on documentaries. Any advice is helpful, otherwise big thank you for your endless great content and sharing :) :) :) :) :) :)

[@LearnLightAndSoundSessions]

The F6 should be a fine option. I got that detail wrong, the F6 can handle hot levels from a mixing board when needed, just switch the input to line level mode.

[@MylesBelland]

@@LearnLightAndSoundSessions Awesome, thanks Curtis!

[@stevenpam]

Haha, my H5 is also sticky. Eww. Tempted by the MixPre 3 ii but power is probably a dealbreaker for me, so I think I'll also go with the F6.

[@MylesBelland]

@@stevenpam LOL why do they get sticky!! 😂 I have tried to clean it with disolvant and it did not help. I don't even remember it being gradual, just one day it was sticky. And it's not even residue sticky. It's just sticky to the touch. So weird, lol. Enjoy your F6!

[@SoundSpeeding]

Don't worry about the F6, if you know your gear, the F6 can handle anything you can throw at it! You said you're "not an audio guy", so a videographer? Probably get the MixPre3. If you want to take your sound a bit more seriously, the F6 or F8n makes much more sense.

[@EquatorialVillager]

Very comprehensive, thanks. Watched it end to end and definitely bookmarking this for future reference (until the next update). This is very valuable for all imaginable categories. Even the pro category is very useful to give context to the prosumer and consumer categories and features. I was curious if you'd mention the RODE Connect as a software option for very entry level podcast recording, but then again it doesn't really belong in this video about recorders (and opens another pandora's box).

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Patrick. Yes, had to draw the line. 👍

[@gepe.]

Great guide, as always. Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Rafa.

[@ManoSantamx]

Hi, I watched the whole video but still couldn't figure out which option is better. We are planning on recording stand up shows with a normal mic on the stage and one pointed to the public. If you can help me, what would be our best option?

[@curtisjudd]

So you need a PA mixer? Or just a recorder? Try ZOOM F3: kzbin.info/www/bejne/inmoc4KXZbqIgNE

[@ab-cx6bd]

Fabulous video. This might sound really weird but disregarding features and price completely, there is a certain charm about quality products made in the US (or countries such as Germany, Japan etc) which i would opt for every single time where feasible, over other countries where the primary motivation is manufacturing at a reduced cost.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks. I understand this point of view. 👍

[@MattBrandon]

Curtis, if you put on your wizard hat and could foretell the future, do you see Rode adding 32-bit float to the Rodecaster on the next version?

[@curtisjudd]

Possibly but that’s just a guess.

[@icecreaman2010]

I've just subscribed Curtis. It sounds like the sound device products maybe an option for me. I have a red komodo and maybe looking at a Gemini in the near future so this will predominantly be used for film application. I have protools for sound application and different sample design tools like NED synclavier and Emu Emulator III. Thanks.

[@curtisjudd]

I agree. We've got a bunch of reviews and tutorials for the Sound Devices if that would be helpful for you.

[@i24p71]

Can you tell how to avoid cracking sounds being recorded to recorder from arms holding gimbal when they rub even slightly? Recorder fixed to the gimbal.

[@curtisjudd]

Avoid rubbing. Mics will always pick up contact sound.

[@i24p71]

@@curtisjudd thank you. Ok

[@jezebabe]

Thank you for your very thorough and detailed review. This is about the only review I need to decide which recorder to buy when I upgrade my Zoom H1. 👏

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@DavidTan-hb8mf]

I want to know about Roland R44 used for film. Thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

Me too but they stopped making it. 🙁

[@adomagala1]

I have used the original SoundDevices Mix-Pre 6 for podcasting and the quality was wonderful. While the price was eyewatering for a production intern, I understood the reason why. A little bit of a learning curve since I never used a field recorder before, but once I read the manual and played around with all the settings, it was a breeze to use.

[@curtisjudd]

I agree. 👍

[@mwhite212]

I just mentioned this on another of your videos, but th problem with the Tascam recorders is interference noise due to a lack of proper shielding. I picked up interference outside my house just from neighbors' wi-fi signals. And if you're in a city, forget it.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for sharing your experience. Clear example of getting what you pay for…

[@yvesdouville57]

I have a question. Here is my setup. I have the Rose NTg-2 mic combined with the BMPCC 4K I use the XLR LINE IN. Can you recommend a really good preamp that won’t introduce noise to my recordings. I will record sound of the camera. Thank you

[@curtisjudd]

I don't know your budget, but my favorites are Sound Devices MixPre-3 or 6 or Zoom F3, F6, F8n Pro.