Long winded rant: Tascam Model 24 vs Zoom LiveTrak L-20

Long winded rant: Tascam Model 24 vs Zoom LiveTrak L-20
#tascammodel24 #tascam #zoom #livetrack
#arturia #minibrute #bleeps #bloops
#heritageaudio #73jr #solder #desolder #electronics
#moog #mother32 #moog mother32 #eurorack #euro #rack #synth #synthesizer #behringer #patches
#daking #micpre #uafx #universalaudio #neve #api #neotek #trident #homeaudio #homerecording #gear #musicgear #ssl #uad #tonemaster #fendertonemasterpro
#indierock #indie #parody #funnygearshow #taylorswift #georgeclooney #chatgpt #tonemasterpro #ai #chatgpt

[@ricardojsgw]

Manufacturers should add an additional tech spec to their mixers: Number of mono and stereo instruments. The Zoom L-20 is a 16 mono and 2 stereo-instrument mixer (totaling 18 instruments). The Tascam 24 is a 12 mono and 5 stereo-instrument mixer (totaling 17 instruments).

[@QuestForGear]

Wow - counting it by instrument is a great way to do this... you nailed it. It also helps me better realize why I don't like all the Stereo tracks on the Tascam you literally lose an entire instrument potentially over Zoom's more flexible approach of mono tracks. Thank you!

[@ricardojsgw]

@@QuestForGear Actually, I'm a keyboard player so I love stereo channels! LOL. Most keyboards today have stereo outputs. So, for my studio I have a small Mackie 12 channel analog mixer which has 4 mono and 4 stereo channels (total 8 instruments) where I can connect 4 stereo keyboards without having to use two mono channels for each. For live purposes I can do with two or even one stereo channel because some of my keyboards have inputs where I can plug another keyboard and use the same stereo channel. But that's why when searching for a mixer I need to know how many mono channels are left after the stereo channel count to see if the rest of the band can fit (especially the drummer lol).

[@vkportable]

Sadly it's a marketing ploy, it makes the desk/device, whatever sound better and more than it really is. It's chronically bashed to death in the mid range mixing desk area. Nearly every desk will say something like 18/24 channels - only to find that there is usually only 12 or 16 mic inputs and the rest are line level.

[@ajaxlepinski3285]

Have you used the Latency Compensation as describes on page 82 of the L-20 PDF manual? I'm wondering how effective it is when overdubbing "in the box" and using the onboard cue.

[@QuestForGear]

I don't believe I did play with that. That's one of those 'features' where in my mind I step back and say... its 2023.... it should just do it if it needs to. Latency should not be an issue in any of this gear at this point.

[@ajaxlepinski3285]

@@QuestForGear Ha! I agree!!!

[@JakeStrange66]

No it shouldn't be an issue anymore. I have the model 12 (it's got all the channels my band needs) & there is no noticeable latency.

[@ajaxlepinski3285]

@@JakeStrange66 Latency is most noticeable when, overdubbing completely in the box.... For example, you plug a guitar directly into the channel input to record an overdub. You listen to BOTH your new guitar (as you play) and the prerecorded tracks via the headphone cue mix - this method causes noticeable latency. HOWEVER, if you record your overdub by mic'ing the guitar amp, and you listen to the guitar amp in the room, and you just use the headphones to listen to the previously recorded tracks, you won't hear any latency. In other words.... when you listen to BOTH the guitar that you're playing AND the prerecorded tracks through the headphone cue send, you get annoying latency. When you listen to your new guitar part from your amp in the room, while listening to the prerecorded tracks in the headphone = no latency. The Latency Compensation feature on the L-20 is supposed to compensate for any latency that you will get by listening to your new guitar that is plugged directly into the board. Without Latency Compensation, the only way to monitor your guitar (that is plugged directly in) is to use an analog mixer to monitor your guitar (outside the box) before it hits the A/D converter. Here's a more detailed explanation: gearspace.com/board/music-computers/395286-using-mixing-desk-combat-latency-through-daw.html

[@JakeStrange66]

@@ajaxlepinski3285 I know what you mean, but I haven't had that problem at all. 🤷

[@gh-nc6qf]

Hi, great video, I learned a lot. Looking to buy my first little home recording set up and I'm trying to find out how greatly the quality of an audio interface will effect recordings where no actual mics are used. When researching about nice interfaces vs cheaper ones I mostly hear about how it makes the mics shine, will there be much difference between low and high end interfaces if I'm recording guitar and bass thru amp+cab sim pedals and using e-drums? Trying to decide between dumping budget into an audio interface and doing the rest on pc, getting one of these combo mixers, or getting a lower end audio interface with a nicer standalone mixer. Thanks for comparing these two units in a way that matters to humans.

[@QuestForGear]

hmm good question. When it's just line in, not a preamp - I guess it's all about the Analog to Digital Conversion and vice versa. Buy anything from Universal Audio or Focusrite - and you will be just fine. How many channels do you need?

[@gh-nc6qf]

⁠@@QuestForGearminimum of two but the more the merrier was looking at SSL12 or one of the UA interfaces.

[@mathewworkman1625]

@@gh-nc6qf I have an Apollo 4 but... It was SOOOO expensive. I guess today (Cyber Monday) - could be a good day for you to decide on something.

[@TerenceKearns]

This ended up being a good advertisement for the zoom. I picked mine up a few months ago and I'm really happy with it. It took a minute for me to get used to (and not annoyed by) the latch and catch thing but if you think about it, the only alternative is to have monorised faders and that would greatly push up the cost and be another thing that could break in years to come so I kinda prefer it over motorised faders. I'm used to it now. I think the L20 gives so much value in very subtle ways - like the 6 aux channels with switch between mono balanced or stereo unbalanced. The 4 outputs is a bit limiting but I have other gear if I need more outputs so it's not a dealbreaker. I actually love that this is so light an portable. It's a pleasure to use (and carry around with me). I also love that I can conrol it with an iPad and not have to set up a network router with wireless access point in order to achieve that - can just use an iPad with bluetooth. This is a win. I've used other systems like the Behringer X32 so I have experience with both. Initially I was annoyed having to use bluetooth because it's less powerful with less range, but honestly, it adds to the portability. Im annoyed that you have to purchase a stupid dongle for it though. But I think it's worth it now. Honestly, considering the overall price, I shouldn't complain. Not having dedicated phantom power per channel is kind of annoying. The other thing I don't like is the cheap feel of the faders and knobs. Oh well. Can't have it all.

[@QuestForGear]

Thanks for your review! I change my mind most everyday... (I am undiagnosed but obviously have some mental issues ) ... currently... I am once again looking to sell the Tascam.... and possibly get the Zoom L-20. Or.... sell the Tascam and simply stay in the box .... via Apollo to Mac Computer with Reaper. Do love that you listed all you like / dislike about the Zoom! Cheers.

[@BigDaddyJames1]

I came for the equipment, but I stayed for the spreadsheet

[@QuestForGear]

lol

[@TylerHNothing]

Love my l20 and your video. Exactly why I bought it - recording multitrack drums, I need 16 channels. At first I only recorded to SD but as an interface it works surprisingly well with an M1. I’m surprised to see it marked down in price, especially for the value. No new firmware updates in a while with some glitches in the current version. Is it getting phased out?

[@QuestForGear]

Not that I am aware of. I was also surprised to see the price drop.

[@isaiahflores9810]

Thank you for taking the time to really compare the two. From what ive researched myself both have features that i dont like honestly. Im torn between the two like how does tascam not have PAD and Polarity Flip? Plus that headphone mix Zoom has is essential for recording bands! At this point They both should know what the people want! I wish there was 24 actual tracks of input and with their own dedicated channels gain, pad, eq, comp,Polarity Flip. and at least 8 Headphone Outs, 4 stereo Submixes With Main. Ability for all tracks to control in PT Or Reaper. like is that so much to ask?

[@QuestForGear]

" is that so much to ask?" - I'm with you! Hey Tascam and Zoom..... ASK US !!! ASK US WHAT WE WANT !!! WE KNOW WHAT WE WANT !! And they can't say it would cost too much.... they never asked what we would be willing to pay !!

[@puntmaster9896]

For live medium to large venue gigs and live mixing for a 5-6 man band, which should I pick?

[@QuestForGear]

Good question - pros and cons to each. The Zoom makes it easy to run your XLR and line cables - because each channel has a fader - you dont have to weasel around the stupid stereo channels the Tascam had. On the other hand - the Tascam has per channel EQ - at a glance you can easily see what eq settings are on what channel... where as the Zoom - you just cant - you have to SELECT each channel. It's... tough to know which would do the better job here. Also the zoom has the 2 effect engines - not just 1. On the Tascam: Lets say its a six man band and all of them sing and have a vox mic... theres channels 1 through 6 gone. 7: guy 1 guitar amp 8: guy 2 guitar amp 2 9: guy - 3 Bass AMP 10: guy 4 saxophone/horn- his mono instrument 11: kick drum 12: snare drum 13/14: oh L and oh R 15/16: Guy 5 - keyboard Line L/R 17/18: uses as mono Tom1 19/20: use as mono Tom2 21/22: probably not easily used without converting connectors. Something like this would work. But on the Zoom.... its input per channel per fader.... it's just easier to deal with, you don't have to weasel around the dang stereo channels.

[@puntmaster9896]

@@QuestForGear can you reccomemd something better? I need minimum 4-5 stage wedges

[@QuestForGear]

Each with a different mix? Then the Zoom is the answer, for sure.

[@puntmaster9896]

@@QuestForGear but it'll be so annoying to not see where I've set the parameters on the eq knobs right? 🤣

[@QuestForGear]

It could be! I feel you don't think so... here's a quote from Sound on Sound magazine... " The L‑20 lacks the analogue charm and immediacy of the Tascam, with its knob-per-function layout and tape-like simplicity. I mean, how quickly can you tweak the EQ of a bunch of drum tracks on the Zoom? I guarantee I could do it more quickly on the Tascam,"

[@loveaboveall2382]

I use the zoom L20 for live mixing at my church. It does sound really good. The only gripe i have with it is that there's not much head room in the pre amps. It seems like its more gear towards studio use, podcasting, etc. For the more live application, the next step up for our church will be the X32 compact.

[@QuestForGear]

Do you find with the lack of head room - you are padding quite a bit? Are you using any external pres?

[@loveaboveall2382]

@@QuestForGear No external pres, everything is plugged in straight from the source to mixer.

[@DonaldMerrit]

I have the model 24. When using a high pass filter on analog circuitry you can only access that filter on the way in while you're recording. Why record it if you're going to take it away?

[@QuestForGear]

I mix with it AFTER the fact. The Tascam can only do it on the way in. The Zoom can do it anytime at all, all the way up to 600Hz. I don't know how much I want gone until I have all the instruments there. How much high pass is needed is completely relevant to the entire mix - not just an instrument on a single channel.

[@dennisreeves632]

LOL! I'm in the market for one of those right now on a smaller scale, looking at the tascam model 12 and zoom L--12. This was great information even in a rant. Nothing is more frustrating than trying to figure out what will work best for me. Thank you for the pointers.

[@QuestForGear]

Thanks - hope the up close warts and all look was helpful to you. Will likely be revisiting this dilemma again soon in a another video.

[@rcameron4091]

I've been using the zoom r16 . I would recommend it for the money . Versatile effects , good amp simulations , easy to use .

[@adddibrux]

Tascam wins on marrying analog and digital together, a key in anything I use in my studio. The Zoom is definitely targeted at a younger generation, whom grew up with digital sound.

[@QuestForGear]

I recorded a song - as same as I could - on both units... they were different sounding for sure. Both perfectly useable. Thanks for watching!

[@proxywar99]

i'd like to hear a comparison of the two songs recording quality !@@QuestForGear

[@akaixl83]

I’ve got the soundcraft mtk 22 , had the zoom L20 , the features were nice on the L20, felt cheap too, but overall sound sounded better on the mtk so I kept it , the tascam 16 I may get or just run it’s main output into my zoom 6 , been looking at the mackie onyx but can’t find anywhere telling me if it record’s multitrack to the sd card or not

[@QuestForGear]

re: Mackie as far as I know - it don't. Even the products they just showed of seem 20 years behind. I don't know what it is with that company. Well actually I kinda do... I met one of the R&D guys in a forum once... was a pompous low wattage ass. He said he had worked for them for 10 years... I pointed out Mackie hadn't done anything decent in 11.

[@StoryTimePlace]

I have to admit you hit the nail on the head! I enjoyed your RANT VIDEO, and i feel your pain! These mix/record multitrack recorders and their convoluted definitions of a track is absurd. Tascam Model 24 is a solid 12 track In/instrument recorder with 5 junk stereo input sets that you have to jury rig to get it right! Horse Puckey Market Treachery, and that’s the end of the matter! Including the Mains as a means to deceive people into believing that it’s a 24 track recorder is simply a lie in my humble opinion! I really wanted (AKA needed) 24 mono instrument tracks. However, I settled on the Tascam M-24 based on desk size, Timecode functions and compatibility, and aesthetics. Don’t get me wrong; I’m completely happy with its performance and what the unit can do! However, I had to do some mental acrobatics to settle the truth of what I’m purchasing! The Tascam’s marketing teams marketer’s chicanery and license to lie, claiming that the Model 24 is a 24 track machine was a tough sell. As I say, 24 tracks is stretching it 7 tracks TOoo many! Once I got passed the chicanery I was ok! I realized that the Timecode generation of the Tascam opens doors to TV/video and music timing than the other devices entering the $4,000 rang. I was willing to spend, but I became very frustrated because there are NO large 24-48 track recorders available! Anyway! Fun video! You sounded like me talking to myself! Ric

[@musicorey]

WHICH one has a bigger punch to the sound?

[@QuestForGear]

The Tascam has some analog mojo for sure. Even running the Apollo output through the Tascam adds a bit of analog warmth. The Zoom as.one would guess is a bit more sterile and transparent.

[@speesychristian7309]

I Love the Loading lock it makes everything easier to get to the last setting

[@QuestForGear]

Not sure what you mean?

[@WarerBrow]

My personal verdict: both of them have really pissy limitations, which motivate for looking further. Personally I started looknig into multitrack recorders with the dream of doing classical music recordings, where you may need a relatively big amount of spot mics (in addition to main stereo-pair), so Zoom having 4 outs is not a big problem. If I got it correctly, the main benefit of this kind of "mixers" is the simplicity, when compared to building a rig consisting of preamps, converters and audio interface. So when we pay 1k$ for Tascam/Zooms 20 preamplified channels with faders, we would need to pay 500$ for some Digiface, 1.2k$ for 2x ASP800 (which combines preamps and converters if I got it right), then if we want physical control we get some Presonus Faderport 16 for additional half a grand (it has motorized faders, lol) and... we get full daw control, with the ability of doing ITB FX and fancy Reaper automations, whatever you can imagine when working in DAW. However, wise would be to add a computer cost, also I may have missed some important piece of gear (cuz ima n00b l0l). But still, the price are approaching 3k$ for which you can get a Midas m32. Which in its turn is none of the portable... Like, ASP800 is a rack unit or how you call it, it's somehow imaginably suited for transportation (yet 4.5 kg per unit is not a joke), but still - this bunch of gear is more mobile than a giant freakin table called "mixing console". So I don't know really.

[@QuestForGear]

"both of them have really pissy limitations, which motivate for looking further." -- this sums up where I am at with it today. I have the Tascam for sale. (again). I may just use Reaper / Apollo until more multitrackers come out. Or I may stop chasing the portable multitrack concept all together. I think I've owned.... 12+ in 20 years. You make some great points here.

[@ajaxlepinski3285]

Not even 10 min in and I gave you a thumbs up! Like everyone else, I was torn between the L-20 and the Model 24. Earlier today, I ordered a L-20 from Sweetwater (on sale for US$100 off). I came across your vid while searching for L-20 training vids. In addition to the L-20's 6 independent cue sends, your rant made me feel A LOT better about my decision!!! I'm only using it for remote recording of drums, vocal, bass and guitar. I'll transfer files and mix on my studio DAW. So, the L-20 is perfect. It would be nice if the L-20 was built better, didn't have an overdub button and had more than 4 outs but, I can live with that. Thanks for posting! I really dug your vid!!! CHEERS!!!

[@QuestForGear]

I should have started the video with.... ultimately they are both good and I'm just nitpicking... either machine gets the job done for sure. When I imagine grabbing a board off the desk and going to a friends place... I picture the Zoom. I am excited for you! For what you described it is going to be perfect for you.

[@ajaxlepinski3285]

@@QuestForGear Cheers bro!

[@rcameron4091]

Great vid for me as I was contemplating both . I am using the r16 and love it but want more inputs . I was leaning toward the L20 and after watching this the L20 it is .. Thanks

[@QuestForGear]

Awesome, hopefully some folks got something out of my rant. My Tascam still sits on my desk. Its going up for sale today... Im just not using it.

[@rcameron4091]

I have had the L20 for a month . After getting used to a couple of things I find it a great unit for the money . Not only more inputs but A big difference in overall sounds . Again thanks for the in depth video . CAMCURSE @@QuestForGear

[@QuestForGear]

Awesome! Both are fine machines.

[@DonaldMerrit]

Somehow I don't find it confusing at all that the last 8 channels on the M24 are actually 4 stereo channels. We might wish it to be something different, but even my simple mind does not find it confusing.

[@QuestForGear]

I hate the split channels - people hate the split channels. I'd pay another $1000 easy if they'd set them to straight mono.

[@DonaldMerrit]

The model 24 has all analog circuitry which is heavier than digital chips. And I prefer the warmth of analog circuitry.

[@QuestForGear]

I miss the 24.... I admit it! I opened a savings account yesterday to buy another one. (Unless something else comes along in the next year).

[@garystackhouse5787]

There are only two alternatives to the latch and catch faders on the L20... 1; motorized faders, putting the cost of the board through the roof, or... 2; analog, meaning no saveable scenes and individual pots on each channel for every monitor send, meaning a WAY bigger board (and probably a higher cost.) TBH, it didn't take me too long to get comfortable with the latch and catch... it's just all in what you're used to. Having worked in radio for years in addition to music production, I used Adobe Audition as a DAW for a long time. I, too, was an early Reaper adopter, and it took some time to get used to the different interface. To ME, at least, the Zoom is the perfect compromise between ease of use, sound, price, and size. YMMV

[@QuestForGear]

Being digital - they could implement a switch that turns latch and catch off and go back to WYWIWYG. And then back to latch and catch if it you were trying to clone level settings between monitor groups. I'd pay about $800 to $1000 for good motorized faders... that's roughly what a 8 fader Presonus costs in Canada anyway. The M-Audio Project Mix I/0 was pretty awesome - Motorfaders and Audio interface all in one. I still have mine - but sadly Black Lion Audio botched the mod job and scrambled the audio. It's now a 'M-Audio Project Mix Electrocute and Burn you'. Thanks Black Lyin' Audio! That's cool that you used Adoboe Auditon as well, me too! You are right about the Zoom... and at this point, I'm spoiled. The 17 year old me would be in awe of any of these devices at this point.

[@mandelharvey3429]

I’m considering mixers now. This is helpful. I want the old behringer 32 channel analog mixer with a record button. For my purposes I need something like the Tascam for live with an internal recording multitrack like the zoom. I’m still looking for the remote function for getting the tascam layout instead of scrolling through scenes and channels.

[@DonaldMerrit]

I have the Tascam Model 24 and I like the fact that it has weight to it it doesn't slide around on my desk when I make connections. The tm24 stays on my desk I don't travel with it. Oh and I don't mind the size of it either.

[@QuestForGear]

Yeah - it and the Livetrak are both fine machines. If you're not moving it - for sure the size and weight of the Tascam are no problem. I had visions of doing a ton of travelling to record - hasn't happened much yet! Cheers.

[@UberOcelot]

Trying to plan a studio (limited budget, want to avoid returns resells) and all this audio interface into daw or into daw-less or blag blah. It's insane. Fell down this track wondering if I need to mix in analog if I'm coming from analog synths / analog fx to retain the sound. Found the Big Six can replace an interface, and is being sold as "the only professional desk mixer in a home format.™" Then I find out the Model 16/24 is way more cost effective, and the pres/eqs in the BigSix while not terrible also aren't really great for fine tuning. It's all auto. But then I find the Toscam doesn't have stereo return like the Mackie does and why do I really care to record to the box if I have a DAW? But the Mackie has less channels and still has less than desired pres/eqs? So if I'm not going for some second-mortage of 500 series equipment I might as well through it into a Focusrite 18i20 interface and mix down digitally in the DAW. (Why would I go for a digital hardware mixer when I can do a better job in pure software, I've already left the analog world at this point in the chain.) Except... you still have latency if you try to force everything through some Focusrite into the daw. Seems like the Soundcraft MTK12 might be good enough hardware but only 12 channels, and the 22 is also kind of cost inefficient and takes up a shit ton of space. Glad I found this video, everyone needs a gaudy 2010's box in the studio. Honestly the entire market seems a bit of a scam for home studios, everyone wants to chalk stupid features in to avoid giving the bread and butter, and then you still have gimped eq. Honestly I'd take the heavy built quality of the Toscam if only they had more stereo returns, a clock that can go out over cv/midi, and everything else you covered. LIKE... ARE WE MIXING HERE? Seems a bunch of these mixers focus on being glorified interfaces, but like maybe put some effort into having world class compression and channels strips. Expensive? I don't know figure it out! Do we want a new generation of great music or not!??!?!?

[@QuestForGear]

I don't know much about the Big Six. I've looked at it several times - it hurts my brain. The layout looks Zany. Big 6.... 6 WHAT? 18 channels... 9 faders.... 6 WHAT??? I guess I would need to look into it further. I'm not much of an SSL guy - I hate the sound of the 80's. Mackie is out for me entirely - they only ever have 4 ins and outs - which is... unbelievable laughable. 'More Stereo returns' - I know! 'ARE WE MIXING HERE?' - Gimped is right. You can... but you have to do it in multiple passes. There is no perfect multitracker at this point, in my opinion. They all miss super easy to not miss stuff. I'd pay another $1000 for the Tascam if they would just do it properly all the way through.

[@UberOcelot]

@@QuestForGear The original SiX was six channels, and the BiG SiX is just a whole lot more of the SiX. Honestly the BiG SiX seems to be the real deal or as close as you get for analog home mixers. Fucking pricey though. The best alternative I've found is the Allen & Heath MixWizard4 16:2. (The one with no stereo channels but you can always hard pan. They have other models with a few stereo channels instead but those feel less versatile outside of live scenarios.) Honestly the Tascam 16 or even 24 still comes across being the best budget option... but you get what you pay for. The Model series does strike one as more of a live set device, probably why it's budget went into it being a reliable gigging tank! Honestly might just get a Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 until I have enough saved for the BiG SiX or Wz4 16:2. Just figured I'd pass along the findings, spent too damn long combining the web and reading past biased user posts. Honestly I doubt the SSL is going to impart an 80's sound with this modern line, but I couldn't really speak on that. I prefer the 90's sound myself and I know a few Jungle guys that moved to the BiG SiX when their Mackie's all crapped out.

[@QuestForGear]

re: Mackie's - its weird with that company - its like a cult. The fans know the technology is 15 years behind, they know its the value option - and they cannot explain why they like it. If a Mackie was good enough - I'd have one, who doesn't want to save money? But the weird 2x4 and 4x2 or whatever it is channel count is SO WEIRD in 2024. It was weird for 2014. As for the BiG SiX - I'll have to watch some video - I still don't have my head wrapped around it. You're probably right about not sounding like the 80's - that was a lazy generalization on my part. SSL for certain - is doing us all a solid with their really nice pricing - and when they have a sale - it's a SALE !!!!

[@Imetalman2000]

This was a great video. I was in the market both of these mixers. Although I’m still not sure which one I want now because you made strong pros and cons for both.

[@QuestForGear]

You are right - much of it is isolated. I've done back and forth after I did this video - currently I have the Tascam Model 24 again. I often think I should have just stayed in the computer with no 'mixer' on my desk. As for your needs - it's so hard to say... either board is going to get it done for you.

[@kashphlinktu]

I’m using a model 12, I would probably prefer the l-20 but it doesn’t have auto punch in/out. Meanwhile the model 24 doesn’t have a metronome. The model 12 has both plus it has midi sync abilities. And you can bounce down tracks and swap them. You can also change the compression after recording. The downside to the 12 is that it only has 6 mono and 2 stereo tracks. Which means you pretty much have to do a lot of bounce downs and sub mixes. So the work flow is kinda similar to an old cassette 8 track. It’s not that bad- usually I record a guitar and drum track, then bounce down the drums to a stereo track and I might bounce the guitars panned left/right to the other stereo track, and then I have 6 tracks left for everything else.

[@QuestForGear]

The 12 does have it's pros doesn't it. I've considered the 'downgrade'. I wish they would just put a machine out that had... everything. I'd spend another $1500 on top, if Tascam would just do it right.

[@elcaminante71]

The Zoom L12 has eight mono inputs, not six

[@DonaldMerrit]

Thanks again for comparing the M24. You got it right about the headphones. I send the M24s "control room" signal to a (Audient, Nero monitor controller.) the Nero sends my signal to; 2prs monitors, 1pr EV PA spkrs and 5 headphone outs with separate volume controls. I've had the Nero monitor controller for some years now and in my experience it adds no color and no noise to the signal. It's remarkably clean and I couldn't do without it in my analog world.

[@QuestForGear]

Hmmm..... not heard of that one...will need to look it up! I've burned through both a Mackie Big Knob and the Behringer knock off.

[@theserulesoflife]

I have the Model 12 and there's definitely some annoyances but it looks great. That said- I just ordered a L-20 as the Model 12 channels were limiting. I'm not recording a band nor church stuff- just beats off my MPC X. But I separate my drums (kick/hat/snare etc) into separate tracks and have them all sent to an external analog compressor- and needed more channels to return them to. With the Live 20- I should now have more than enough channels. I don't have it yet but it's on sale so pulled the trigger. I'll compare both and sell whichever I like least between the 2. If the Tascam Model 24 was cheaper/ I likely would have stayed with Tascam. I like having EQ knobs on each channel. I wish both had a touch screen. Entering song names via scroll wheel is an absolute pain and feels very 90s. I also LOVE that the Zoom has LED meters on each channel. If either company would make a model with a larger touchscreen AND motorized faders- it would be game over. If neither of these work out- I'm likely going to go the SSL UF1 + UF8 route next.

[@QuestForGear]

You said it!!! I'm really hoping better options come out in the next few years. I definitely have not found my 'forever' tracker.

[@davidfirth1]

I do full AV for a church, and for little portable events or parking lot stuff with a few mics and an electric piano, I use the baby of the family -- an L-8. The L series is decent. Looks like a toy to the gear snobs, but gets the job done. In the sanctuary, I run a Yamaha TF3. When I sit at that console, I'm at work. At the office. But there's something about the Zoom that's fun. lol.

[@QuestForGear]

That sounds pretty fun.

[@cresshead]

05:35 reasons why he's swapping starts here - 1. complains about stereo tracks not being mono 2. complains that the tascam is heavy - for portable mixer it is 22 pounds vs zoom L20 track is 8 pounds 3. tascam is built better metal/wood over zoom which is plastic 4. low cat/hi pass - tascam physical on each channel 100hz fixed vs zoom digital 40-600hz (tascam mid freq is sweepable from 100 to 8k so you could use that to cut/boost when mixing ) 5. polarity flip - tascam -no, zoom yes (snare top bottom mics - phase adjustment) 6. zoom fader latch n catch (digital) is annoying, tascam set and forget faders (analogue) 7. zoom is also a headphone amp with multiple headphone support for a band -6 8. fx sends -zoom 2 fx meh, tascam - fx no bad. 9. sub groups - tascam a,b,c, zoom can use headphone mixer as a sub section 10. back to weight...recap. 11. feel - tascam batter knobs, buttons, faders. zoom light endless encoders -cheaper build 12. tascam - analogue, zoom digital -tascam warmer but less detail, zoom clearer but more harsh 13. pads on channels - tascam NO zoom yes pad button per channel 14. L20 favour live recording, you need to use overdub button. 15. input metering - zoom has input metering next to every channel strip. tascam green to red clip light 16. inserts - tascam has 2 inserts - (channel 1 and 2) zoom no inserts 17. tascam 100mm faders, zoom 60mm faders 18. zoom only 4 outs on usb but 22 inputs on usb, tascam is 22 out, 24 input on usb 19. zoom has a metronome 20. tascam has 2 additional tracks - bounce down tracks 21. zoom has slate mic

[@QuestForGear]

Wow - nice! Thanks!

[@eugenecanady5452]

i've had the L20 for a while now, and after getting my head around those sub-mixes and headphone outputs, i've really gotten to like it. My only gripe is I would love to have MIDI on there as well. Also, if the inputs were on the back, it would probably make my cables happier. Having each input show up as dedicated input in Cubase is wonderful, and the 2ndary output to run to external effects is great.

[@QuestForGear]

I don't know how many of my videos / long saga of drama you have been following - but long story short - I am getting another brand new L-20 in the mail TOMORROW !!! I think it's the 7th one. I just keep flipping between the Tascam and the Zoom. I may scar this one with a knife - or crazy glue it to my table - to prevent me from ever swapping again. The last swap wasn't really my fault - the Tascam I sold came back to me, had to refund the money, couldn't afford both.... but Tomorrow - I receive my latest and final L-20. Glad you are enjoying yours!

[@lperry65]

One of my biggest issues is the misleading marketing of mixers, if you market it as a 12 channel mixer, then each individual channel strip is what makes it 12 Chanel’s. Having phono and 1/4 inputs on the same strip doesn’t make it two channels. It’s one channel with two or more inputs that share the controls on that channel. But nearly all of them lie and this misinformation fools people new to mixers into thinking they have individual controllable inputs. If it has 10 individual channel strips it’s a 10 channel not 12 or 16 just because some of the channels share Bluetooth or phone etc. Also if you put both aux and fx on a mixer, don’t make them mutually exclusive. There is never a circumstance where I either want to hear myself or have some reverb!! Sorry, but they do my head in. I can’t believe trading standards allow them to get away with such misleading product names and descriptions when it’s obviously misleading! Thanks for the video, very informative 🙂

[@QuestForGear]

Thank you for your comment - I agree 100% !

[@repertoirehomerecordingstu8408]

I got this dilemma when i chose between these 2 years ago. But, finally i chose Tascam because of the number of DAW returns.

[@QuestForGear]

Yes... Zoomed screwed that up bad.

[@DonaldMerrit]

On second thought I think you did a great job of making comparisons between these two machines and I'm going to subscribe and thumbs up right now.

[@QuestForGear]

Thanks! I appreciate it- and look forward to talking gear with you!

[@DonaldMerrit]

This video should get more views, I think it is so beneficial in so many ways. I've been watching this video on and off since this morning, a few minutes here and there. And this video gives a very good understanding between analog and digital limitations and raises an issue that is a big pet peeve of mine; why do they call it a 24 track when it's really only 12 full fledged channels??

[@QuestForGear]

Thanks!! My channel is small... but this one has a good amount of views.

[@shadowsymphony1]

Yes not enough headroom on the zoom and the mic pre"s are so sensitive it's unbelievable.. I use the pads... And as soon as you start turn the volume up it starts distorting to get enough vioume of what you want. I used the Roland vs machines for years they are fantastic clean and loud without distortion I was disappointed when I got the zoom for that reason.. I was thinking about switching to the tascam but I would have to sell my zoom first. But I've heard the recordings sound better from the zoom than the tascam so maybe I'll just go back to the behringers. Their mic pre"s sound great.

[@QuestForGear]

I had a Roland VS2000! I believe that was the model #. Brings back memories. Johnny Cash was using one in this last days as well. I wonder if Roland will ever again make a similar machine. Which Behringer's would you think you would go back to?

[@shadowsymphony1]

@@QuestForGear Hey buddy thanks for the reply I'm thinking of getting the behringer umc1820 and then sync up the behringer ADA 8200 for more inputs

[@QuestForGear]

I'm also interested in the umc1820. Would love to a/b them against the Focusrites.

[@MWIrecords]

I have the L-20, & a split audio snake. I strictly use it for live show recording. My problem with both of these systems is no MIDI! For me, that alone keeps neither one from being the center piece in my studio. My keyboards, drum machine, even my last 2 guitar processors have MIDI. WTF were they thinking?!

[@QuestForGear]

I know. Someone will say.... 'They have to keep the cost down'. I say... NO THEY DON'T. Jack the price another $1000.... I will pay it... just somebody make a machine that fills the gaps.

[@suhairisajuli746]

Its a business. They did that on purpose, for you to upgrade on their latest products which they will improve the features.

[@MadDeliriousOfOldMagic]

my issue is my tascam 24 basically has a broken monitor channel and it is not a repair i can do. and this is super common , same with the power switch, i will be getting hte zoom soon

[@QuestForGear]

That sucks! Have you contacted support? I contacted them once , and they were helpful. Please keep me posted - I'm curious about this, as I still have my unit and may keep it. If you need me to look support contact info for you - let me know and I will.

[@MadDeliriousOfOldMagic]

@@QuestForGear the facebook group who has a tascam rep in it basically said i need to take it to a tascam repair shop, which for me is 2+hours away each direction. seems like its a very common occurance.

[@QuestForGear]

That sucks!!! Any talk of if it's a warranty repair - or you will have to pay?

[@MadDeliriousOfOldMagic]

@@QuestForGear not sure on cost, kinda beyond the point if its happening to lots of folks. if you get bored check ou the power switch issues that keep opping up, its like a 3 dollar part or something bu tpretty risky to try and do yourself and expensive to have a technician do it. quality control is the issue it seems.

[@QuestForGear]

@@MadDeliriousOfOldMagic I have cracked open mine before - cannot remember why - I think a dropped a guitar pick in it maybe. Looked like some repairs , I can do.... but... I dont mess with much SMD components.

[@dji.e.3868]

Awesome review exactly what I was looking for

[@QuestForGear]

Thanks! I try to make hands on, home-made videos that I would like to see. I appreciate your comment, you would not believe the people who stop by here expecting I should have had Peter Jackson produce my videos, lol.

[@DonaldMerrit]

I was, at first, pretty disappointed to find out that you can only use one of the effects at a time on the M24. But because the effects as well as the preamps and the compressors aren't all that great, I use all outboard gear.

[@QuestForGear]

I don't hate the reverb! And the EQ is usable.for sure !

[@HeathcliffBlair]

I have that Zoom. It's good but it has mind fuXXs of its own. It's fine for my purposes, but it still took some getting used to. My advice: try before you buy, or get it from a seller with a good returns policy just in case. Cheers.

[@QuestForGear]

"mind fuXXs of its own" - do tell !!

[@MrBassmantim]

Doesnt your phone mute ? both Tascam and Zoom have mute. I just bought l12 to record my band.And i am sarcastic BTW.

[@QuestForGear]

Not sure what you mean - because my phone went off? (Ive not watched this vid in a while) -- yeah I probably forgot to turn my phone off.

[@DonaldMerrit]

Thanks for doing this video I have a Tascam M24 and I am learning some things.

[@QuestForGear]

Excellent !!

[@descargamusicalny]

I like multitrack recorders and I have a few but, if staying in the box might aswell get a lynx converter with 24 or 32 ins and an analog board of you choice. Btw I also have UAD x8p and 2 octo satellites.

[@QuestForGear]

Ooh nice! I think I'd be happy with that much UAD stuff... but that's a ton of cash.

[@descargamusicalny]

@@QuestForGear yes, it is kind of expensive.

[@QuestForGear]

I can't help but wonder how much longer the Apollos will be relevant now that they are starting to go Native. I suppose the Unison feature will still be around a while.

[@descargamusicalny]

@QuestForGear yeah, the unison stuff is still good for now. I have learned about different preamps with their emulations, I think I will invest in some physical hardware like API, neve etc. Those things will last a lifetime.

[@QuestForGear]

You've reminded me - I've not really played with the Unison 610 preamp plugin. I own it, never used it. Maybe I'll do a video of that plugin in the Unison. I claim I know the 610 sound (I used to own a real 610) so I'd like to see if it sounds like I remember. Having never used a real API, I can't comment. Neve.... I have my (broken) Heritage Audio and my Warm Audio clones... the UA Unison and Neve plugins do sound similar to me.

[@RoomAtTheTopStudio]

Soundcraft Signature 22MTK will probably give you what you want. 20 individual tracks recorded simultaneously, 22 tracks in total, sixteen mono tracks and three stereo tracks. Best to buy new as the old ones have power supply troubles. Then again you probably won't like it as it's big but for me it's ideal as my centre piece for my main studio to connect up my synths, MPC eight outs and record guitar or Rhodes.

[@QuestForGear]

You are probably right - it probably would give me what I want - I have looked at it a time or 2. I feel I am retreating back into the box lately... doing everything in Reaper via my Apollo. The Hybrid dream is fading.

[@jameswallace5967]

Good entertaining video. The problem as I see it is nobody today is making a good all in one multitrack recorder. Fortunately for me I record by myself so 4 ins is more than enough. I also use REAPER.

[@QuestForGear]

Thanks! I have ambitions to still record full bands live off the floor, otherwise it would be nice to only need a pair of golden channels.... would certainly be more affordable!

[@bobdimartino6738]

i feel exactly the same as you do with the stereo tracks and it's funny i did the same hada home studio then flaked out and was like i don't want a bunch of weirdos in my house lol and the guitar player trying to be louder than the other been through that lol

[@QuestForGear]

lol wow- kinda glad to hear I am not the only one with these... concerns, lol.

[@bobdimartino6738]

i'm from boston i literally spent around 30.000 on gear and was the same way. i never really considered having strangers in my house then i got into arguments with people who didn't know wtf they were talking about i finally said fuck it and sold almost everything and just kept the essentials for my own recordings most musicians are so narcissistic i can't even have a normal conversation with the majority and i'm using the 24488 neo tascam same issue 12 tracs are real and the rest virtue even worse the 32 track newer one has even more virtue tracks @@QuestForGear

[@QuestForGear]

Wow - similar story, though I've spent more money - and my primary goal was always to record myself. But I've got GAS bad. I do still record bands on occasion - but had my fill of people I dont know acting like rock stars.

[@alfieshipley1505]

Have you had a look at the Mackie

[@QuestForGear]

Does the Mackie multitrack to SD Card? Cause if it does I'll buy one right now.

[@alfieshipley1505]

It multitracks but I don’t know to the sd

[@QuestForGear]

If Mackie can come up with one with a bolt on SD Multitracker - I'll be all over that.

[@alfieshipley1505]

Yh I’m looking for a desk/interface only downside is no expansion like Adat only USB b and power Any suggestions?

[@RockTelevision-vv1im]

Something inaccurate in the video, MOTU has been offering interfaces for years that give you more than 8 tracks, plus you can chain multiple units together to get more tracks (As you can with UAD and others) I use an Apollo Twin and a MOTU 828 at the same time into my Mac for a total of 12 inputs. I can hook up other interfaces as well for more tracks like my Zoom H5. I'm not nearly as impressed with the mic preamps and sound quality of the Zoom stuff compared to Tascam, but that's just my opinion.

[@QuestForGear]

True... I had a MoTu that had 10 ins and of course you can ADAT more in... I was ranting about all the 2,4 and 8s out there... I mean Mackie mixers from.THIS YEAR only do 4 ins. So you are right.... there are a few exceptions off the beaten path that offer more ins than 8 via USB.

[@ryan2stix]

Just buy a zoom and have both models.. problem solved..

[@QuestForGear]

The thought has crossed my mind.

[@StoryTimePlace]

Good and simple suggestion!

[@DonaldMerrit]

Great video, again I realize that calling the Tascam M24 a 24 channel console is somewhat deceptive. But channels 23 and 24 are dedicated to saving your master tracks without fail every time you record. I find it to be a great safety measure. You will never lose what you've already recorded. Kudos I say.

[@QuestForGear]

Thank you! Appreciate your comments!

[@adddibrux]

Interesting the converters weren't compared..The Tascam M16/M24 have Teac HDDA's, Zoom would be hard pressed to match those

[@QuestForGear]

The Zoom pre's were ok. Clear for sure. I didn't realize the Tascam is using the Teac HDDA's. I still have the Tascam here... tempted to unbox it and have some more fun with it soon.

[@DJ_PROMO_PR]

Agree with you in almost everything you said. ALL these cot damn companies playing games. I own the Model "12". Only 6 mono channels. 7/8 & 9/10 in stereo pairs. 11/12 for main mix recording. Channel inserts ONLY in channels 1 & 2. Also, new 8-channel audio interfaces in 2024 all of a sudden HAVE TO cost $1,000 and up because they may have a little bs screen and USB-C. #gtfo

[@QuestForGear]

Check out Mackie.... their NEW boards only do 4 ins.... WTH ???

[@MikeFoerster]

I've never owned a Zoom, but I have thought about renting one from Long and McQuade just to try it out.

[@QuestForGear]

I've been on their site this week - they don't seem to have one in stock in all of Ontario according to their web site - but rentals might be different. My Long and McQuade experiences have mostly been .... bad... depending on the store.

[@MikeFoerster]

I think they rent a Zoom L-16, but for me it is more that I want to see what it does. Honestly, for what I do, I will stick with the Model 24. Hope you enjoy your Zoom when you find it.

[@QuestForGear]

That awesome! I hope you make some videos! Looking forwarding to hearing what you think. And...I still don't know what Im doing. I could flip a coin at this point. Strong Pros and Cons for Tascam and Zoom.

[@MikeFoerster]

@@QuestForGearLooks like they don't rent Zoom stuff anymore. Dammit. Should've done it years ago when they did.

[@QuestForGear]

Well you and I should get together anyway. If I get one we'll figure something out for you to get give it a good going over.

[@TommyTrentonJr]

Tascam works fantastic for mpc producers Id actually say better than the Zoom. But I totally see your point in your scenario for sure! Great video! You really helped me understand a clear difference between the two!

[@QuestForGear]

Glad you got something out of it!

[@ricardojsgw]

There is no need for the L-20 to have one USB output per channel. You can load all WAV files to each channel and mix from there. USB outputs in digital mixers are meant to take advantage of the physical outputs of the mixer avoiding the need to use the physical outputs of your computer. My Roland Fantom keyboard, with its 16-track internal mixer, behaves like that. When seen from the DAW there's 16 stereo inputs (32 mono) and 2 stereo outputs (main and sub).

[@QuestForGear]

" is no need for the L-20 to have one usb output per channel. " - The Tascam does it and it's pretty fun to return all the tracks in Reaper to each and every fader on the Tascam... it's a true hybrid experience where as if you are only returning a stereo master... every interface ever does that. I did a session last night for about 3 hours and I am now thinking my hybrid/out of the box/ no-daw experiment is probably coming to an end... and I'm likely going to retreat back to into the box. No-daw / Hybrid / Out of the Box sounded like a fun idea... but I have to admit defeat, it's just not working out.

[@ricardojsgw]

@@QuestForGear I think the hybrid concept of the Tascam is appealing. Specially if you like to see all the knob's and slider's positions at once instead of using a single fat channel. If analog sound is what you're looking for that should be a compelling reason to keep it. Overall I think the Tascam is a higher quality mixer and based on the way you record instruments and how you pay attention to detail sound wise it should suit you better. Your issue seems to be mainly a lack of sufficient channels. But you seem to need also many of the features of digital mixers like multiple aux mixes. That's why I think you should upgrade to a higher quality digital mixer like the Presonus StudioLive 32SC. It costs double I know but maybe that's why you are struggling deciding between the Tascam and the Zoom. They both come short in many aspects bc they both cut corners to keep the cost down.

[@alkaiosmusic]

I started the video thinking "that's great! an alternative to the Tascam Model 24 that doesn't cost as much". But thinking about it as the video progressed, I realized that it was not for me. The analog compressor that doubles as a limiter sounds really handy (I don't really know, that's why I saw your whole rant haha); all the outputs of the Tascam as an audio interface, going back from Reaper to the console to really have a hybrid mixing experience sounds like something I'd like to try... I feel like the Zoom is intended as a very versatile and very well developed Swiss army knife, but for the uses I might put to it I can invest in an Audient ID44 (I currently use an ID14 mkII with a Focusrite Octopre), expand with another preamp via ADAT, and continue mixing completely inside the box. I've been doing that, it's effective and efficient, but I'd like to try something else, more hybrid and without having to rob a bank. If I was mixing or recording live bands, going to and from different venues and wanted to stop mixing on my PC, the Zoom Livetrak would definitely be my go-to. My idea of workflow would be the following: tracking on the Tascam>work with some plugins in Reaper>go back to the Tascam to mix>Loopback Sub or Mon 1 and 2 to give effects like parallel compression to some tracks. Have you tried a similar workflow? What do you think of all this? Loved your rant haha

[@QuestForGear]

If I forgot to mention - the Zoom has a compressor on every channel as well. Some say it's not great while others seem to like the compressor on the Tascam channels well enough. SO they both have channel compression. Zoom can use it anytime, Tascam only on record as far as I know. The fastest work flow seems to be - straight into the machine (sd card) be it Zoom or Tascam. Like you described - Ive tried variations between tracking with Tascam and then mixing on Reaper / back to Tascam... it muddys the water and actually paralyzes my work flow. What you are saying is a viable method for sure - but too many steps for me. I think what I'm going to do it ... keep all 'serious' tracking in the DAW and mix in the DAW and do my fake-mastering in the DAW. The tracker.... be it Tascam or Zoom - will just be for my really quick notepad ideas... turn it on hit record as opposed to firing up the Mac and Reaper. Make sense? The Tascam or Zoom will also be used for when I need ~20 inputs... otherwise Ill just use the UA Apollos 4 ins into Reaper. I appreciate you commenting, you made me think about this- and I think its brought me to a reasonable solution.

[@redcomn]

I sort of gave up on two of this and bought Yamaha dm3

[@QuestForGear]

I'll check that out... I'm not familiar with it.

[@QuestForGear]

hmm... I'll look into this.

[@molotulo8808]

I love my Tascam Model 24. I run 5 keyboards, 2 microphones, a Boss Me-80, a Yamaha RX5, a Tascam CD-RW900mkII, no wonder why Canada is a third world country. My Tascam model 24 works excellent. I don't do DAW, at 64, I press 250 pounds. My lunch weighs more. I have a wonderful studio. Musicians are unnecessary, I do more than a band. I just bought 15 SD cards and in conjunction with my Roland FA06, i kick butt. Im buying a new Remington BDL 7 mm bolt action rifle with my profits. But, to each their own.

[@QuestForGear]

Awesome! And yeah Canada is a third world country, and getting worse by the day.

[@DonaldMerrit]

I'm with you on this one, It is so effing cool, merging into the Digital Realm because you can do so much. Analog can't come close.

[@QuestForGear]

I did enjoy the 'hybrid' setup.... Reaper playing the tracks down through the Model24, giving me analog eq and nice real faders. I WILL own the Model24 again! Really trying to monetize this channel so I can ... pay for mistakes I've made selling some gear. Cheers.

[@jeffparryncc1701]

Zoom - Can you record all tracks separately to a pc or sd card? Yes. Also Zoom - I'm cheaper... and lighter!

[@QuestForGear]

Both great machines though.

[@charlesrhinesmith4585]

All that moving around can make people motion sick!!!

[@QuestForGear]

Yeah I was a bit disappointed with the camea work as well - I had hired Peter Jackson and his production company to shoot this. They arrived a week earlier to setup - we got the contracts signed and the crew had ample time to setup in my basement. You would have thought for the 83 million dollars I paid them, this video would have come out a little bit better. That's why now when I make a video in my basement for youtube, it's got to be James Cameron... or Scorsese. Check my last few videos - this are all Camera and Scorsese together - one of them holds the camera and the other holds the boom mic... it's a marked improvement.

[@DonaldMerrit]

Good video As far as Tascam Model 24 not really having 24 full-fledged channels, I agree it's a bit deceptive but it is common practice and it's not fooling anyone. Did it fool you? Did you think there was 24 fully equipped channels on a Tascam Model 24? I'm willing to bet that you did the research and you knew exactly how the channels were laid out. It doesn't really make a difference how many channels they say there is because when I look at it I can clearly see how many channels it has.

[@QuestForGear]

No it didn't fool me. ' Did you think there was 24 fully equipped channels on a Tascam Model 24?' = they have implied that there is, right there in the name. Why did Zoom not call their's the Zoom L-22 ? 'It doesn't really make a difference' - for sure, barely even worth commenting on. Cheers!

[@DonaldMerrit]

Please don't get me wrong sometimes a text message doesn't speak properly. I agree with much of what you're saying, it's just that I own a Model 24 and some of the things that you think are a negative I think are positive but that's why they make different machines to keep us all happy.

[@QuestForGear]

For sure... and it's polarizing for sure. I've owned em both, love em both. My issue is... I am never happy. I have bad GAS for sure. Spoiled probably. Think back 20 years.... we didn't have these choices to even make !!!

[@johannjohann6523]

Both mixers are very good for the price. But in a toss up I'd give it to the Zoom LiveTrak. But other lesser Zoom comparable mixers compared to Tascam I'd go with the Tascam. But Zoom did a really good job with the LiveTrak, hitting one out of the park in my opinion.

[@QuestForGear]

Both a good, both get the job done. Certainly not how I would design one.

[@DonaldMerrit]

I do find it odd that you rant about the high pass filter because it doesn't work unless you remember to push the button. Most everything I use won't work unless I remember to push a button. You said you run high pass filter on just about everything, why don't you put all the M24's high pass filters on and then you only have to remember the times that you don't want to use a high pass filter.

[@QuestForGear]

Because mix with it AFTER the fact. The Tascam can only do it on the way in. The Zoom can do it anytime at all, all the way up to 600Hz.

[@hallucigenia]

I sold my Tascam Model 24 and bought a Zoom L-20R. Not only did it save me precious studio real estate (I make mostly electronic music and mix via software), it was cheaper, and the iPad controls have worked great for me. On top of everything, the Zoom sounds much better than the Tascam.

[@QuestForGear]

"sounds much better than the Tascam" -- there is no doubt... they sound different. In the notes I made way back.... I actually like the Zoom sound better. I'm no Golden ear'd producer though.

[@ShazammtheProducer]

at this point you could have had both

[@QuestForGear]

That's is sadly true.

[@fredflintstone1428]

The Tascam is great. You were right. I got to 5mins in, but that was enough of 'the long, winded rant.

[@QuestForGear]

That's ok.

[@DonaldMerrit]

It sounds like you're more unhappy about the musicians you have in your studio. You can't change how many channels the model 24 has but you can change who you allow in your studio.

[@QuestForGear]

Well I've had mostly good times. I've also had some.... 'wow - I would never do that at someone else's house ' times. It's always odd to me when a guitar player and drummer enter into a game of 'Look how loud we are' - while you are trying to set a mic up for another member of the band. Like - is in the studio really the time to be having a loudness competition? And please.... make sure my head is right by the crash when you whack it.

[@DonaldMerrit]

I agree we musicians have Bad Manners at times. I do consider myself a conscientious, good mannered individual but I was in the studio recently having my CD mastered the engineer scolded me (rightfully so) for resting my elbow on his speaker stand. I just got caught up in a conversation and wasn't thinking about it. And I never thought about you actually being in someone else's house that's totally different. Thanks for your responses I appreciate you

[@DonaldMerrit]

I agree, one headphone out on the M24 doesn't cut it, I also think there should be an insert on every channel of the M24, but it's only on the first two channels. But then I guess it would cost more?

[@QuestForGear]

'elbow on his speaker stand' - I'm not like that at all. I think my specific pet peeves are more reasonable. ie: Don't tip an open chip bag upside down, get chips all over the floor and then leave so I can clean it up. That one was strange. I record you music, I'm not your mother.

[@QuestForGear]

Yeah a ton of guys want the inserts and hate that the Zoom has none. I am not as of yet much of an insert guy. I'm more of a ... record it clean and process it after kind of guy.

[@ekredel]

I just don’t trust Zoom anymore since I owned one of their higher-end handheld recorders. The preamps were just horrible, and of this is the case with L-20 then the for the rest of the system you are in “garbage in - garbage out” territory…

[@QuestForGear]

I found the Zoom pre's ok.... but to be fair.... never did complete a whole serious song on this board. It was just too cheap and frustrating - I have to send it back. I now use a hybrid setup of Mac/Reaper and the Tascam again.

[@DonaldMerrit]

It was a little janky but I got it to work. I thought that was kind of funny

[@QuestForGear]

I'll have to check the vid - did I say that about hybrid mixing ?

[@soundguymatt]

Zoom is better for live sound and multi tracking shows. Tascam is better for the home studio. I use the zoom live for one of the bands I run sound for and love it. Only con is no gates

[@QuestForGear]

I've never got to use either for live sound, I think they'd both be pretty handy for that. Thanks for commenting!

[@brianroyst1869]

L-20 has 2 High-Z inputs, channel 1&2 are both High-Z.

[@QuestForGear]

It sure does.

[@molotulo8808]

I would rather have a physical machine. A computer inmage/program you really don't own it, you get to use it. I want hard, tangable "Stuff"!

[@QuestForGear]

I'm right there with you. Since I've posted this video... I still cannot get my mind out of the computer.... it completely stops me from doing anything. I have to track via machine.... currently for me that's the Zoom. I don't know if it because I was doing 4-track stuff 25 years ago... but recording into the computer just doesn't work for me. I did it between 2003 and even now.... but I hate it.

[@DonaldMerrit]

I'm reading down in the comments and it looks like I'm the only one here. I don't know why but it made me laugh at myself

[@sboy1955]

Just look at the Tascam 24 as a 16 channel board with more capability and better laid out that than the Zoom 16.

[@QuestForGear]

I currently own neither of them and love/hate both of them. I'm back in the DAW these days... longing for a Multitracker of my dreams that does not exist. Maybe NAMM 2024 will have more options.

[@trushreitsam5802]

You know of the Behringer 32C? You might say what you want about Behringer and be right, but they have at least one option

[@QuestForGear]

"You might say what you want about Behringer" - you'll have to remind me what you are talking about here, I like Behringer a lot. The 32C machine is way out of the price range of these 2 machines, at least in my neck of the woods. If we are going to add another $1200.... we could pull quite a few other machines into the comparison.

[@trushreitsam5802]

​@@QuestForGearYeah, sry that was stupid. Glossed over that "little" detail...

[@QuestForGear]

No worries, there are no rules here, and I don't think I specified a price range I was looking at. In my neck of the woods... the L-20 and Model24 are priced close to each other - or they were until the L-20 did a price drop. I'm glad you mentioned the Behringer.... I'm going to take a hard look at it for fun, though I hate touch screens. (I think it has one?). Also not sure if it multitracks to SD. All things I am now curious about, thanks!

[@trushreitsam5802]

​@@QuestForGearI had the compact version which is a bit cheaper for a time - I was being stupid - It doesn't have a touch screen, but I think there is no record to SD.

[@QuestForGear]

There are some more ... higher priced multitrack coming. I cannot for the life of me find a link to show you. I thought Presonus or QSC... but just went to their web sites and don't see anything, making my think this stuff it's out yet. Yamaha might have a new higher priced multitrack - and there is another company... wish I could remember.

[@JoeBaermann]

Tascam phantom power on all strips, Zoom grouped in 4x4. I don’t get why so many mixers make use of global phantom power, grouped is better, ideal would be pr. channel. So for live recording the Tascam is pretty useless without an external device to feed the mics that need 48V, like overheads. Nice that the Livetrak has plenty of headphone outputs, all in all I would say that it is better than the Tascam when it comes to live recording without the need of a Mac/PC and additional outboard devices. I wonder if the L20R can do the same job, since I don’t need to move faders and knobs after they are set.

[@QuestForGear]

It's gotta be a cost thing. 1 48volt rail and switch. I never have Ribbon mics around here so I don't mind , but yeah , I know a lot of folks hate global phathom.

[@JoeBaermann]

@@QuestForGear No condensers either? What do you use for overheads on the drums and ambient room mics?

[@QuestForGear]

I have condensers, which need the Phantom Power of course - so no issues with having Global Phantom for those! It's because of the ribbon mics that people do not like the global Phantom.

[@JoeBaermann]

@@QuestForGear I see, so there are no issues running condensers and dynamic mics at the same time with phantom power enabled globally. No one ever told me that, actually got told the opposite back in the late 80’s, so I always ran them separated. 😂 Makes me wonder if modellers and amps with XLR DI can take it. As I understand it the signal path from output to mixer needs to be balanced plus that the XLR on the modeller or amp needs to be isolated, maybe it is included in the manuals.

[@QuestForGear]

I've never had a problem! As far as I know it's only non-powered Ribbon mics that burn up. 'A dynamic microphone, like the SM58, does not require phantom power because it does not have active electronics inside. Nonetheless, applying phantom power will not damage other microphones in the vast majority of cases.''

[@Bl_Radio]

But... what year is it?

[@QuestForGear]

Not sure what you mean?

[@Bl_Radio]

@@QuestForGear you said, "its the year 2023..." alot in the video.

[@QuestForGear]

I don't feel like counting right now.... how many times is alot?

[@jeffpapis9474]

You lost me after the 3rd boom bang.

[@QuestForGear]

I'll make a note of that.

[@DonaldMerrit]

imho, digital processors or plugins, whatever you call them cannot compare to the analog real thing.

[@QuestForGear]

I agree! Wish I could afford $50,000 in outboard reverb, compressor, eq. I've got a few pieces of outboard. At least the digital emulations have given me a taste of what the real deal is like.

[@grantbovee]

only 4 outputs makes it useless for a whole band

[@QuestForGear]

I have a big problem with the only 4 outputs. (The 4 back from via DAW). It's preventing me from purchasing the Zoom now.

[@tooljunkie46n2]

What? 4 outputs?

[@tooljunkie46n2]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJiug6WVpc-Sla8si=rdpJtjLEeFlDh3BP This guy has all 20 into the daw

[@QuestForGear]

The Zoom only brings 4 back from a computer. The Tascam brings them ALL back. Actual Hybrid mixing - every channel can come to a physical fader. Zoom - you can only bring a 2 pairs of stereo back.

[@tmoss89]

I’m not a fan of these hybrid boards it’s odd

[@robtherub]

Sound engineers are so grumpy by they've done the wiring they don't even like the musicians, pro studio statistics say 90% of studio time is wiring, you have to wire for 9 hours to make 1 hours music, make sure to get some music recorded in between all the engineering

[@QuestForGear]

9 to 1 ... probably true. My basement studio area is FULL or so much wiring. And you can never have enough.

[@robtherub]

@@QuestForGear mine needs completely unwiring and rewiring, spaghetti junction. Years ago i was engineer in semi pro studio and remember unwiringnrewiring much more than at home where you can leave it fixed but i think somehow unwiring rewiring is uotimately faster and better. I used to make more of my own musicnwhen i was recording lots of other peoples music. Now i dedicate to just my music i produce less. Something to be said for industrial techniques

[@QuestForGear]

" I used to make more of my own musicnwhen i was recording lots of other peoples music" - I think that maybe a law of physics... a body in motion stays in motion... or something like that. Now that you say that... it was the same with me... if I had bands coming in and going, I would also work on my own stuff more.

[@robtherub]

@@QuestForGear yeah i think the whole "quit everything to work on my stuff" can be counterproductive, even after working for everybody for free

[@yolhanson]

Nonsense. I've got the Tascam 24 and just counted the inputs/channels. 22, with the last two for the stereo output. 1-12 are all mono. 13/14, 15/16, 17/18, 19/20 are stereo and completely usable with any instrument. Keys in stereo. A drum outboard mixer coming to the Tascam in stereo... the possibilities are many. 21/22 are designed for music players or BT devices (at live gigs, for example). This is absolutely common. The Zoom also has 17/18 and 19/20 as stereo channels. Wherefore the rant about channels, I ask?

[@QuestForGear]

i guess it's all just nonsense. Your counting is so good! Wherefore me thinks you did not understand my point, at all. Great counting though, really! You just keep it up!

[@luigilugnani7456]

video completamente traballante, non si può vedere. così difficile usae uno stabilizzatore di ripresa ???...

[@QuestForGear]

Eres el único que se queja. ¿Tuviste un derrame cerebral? Tal vez necesite ver a un médico para ver si tiene algún problema con su cerebro.

[@user-is9ug9nv4v]

Zoom l20 mixer price in india

[@mathewworkman1625]

What?

[@QuestForGear]

Zoom l20 mixer price in india?

[@VeeJay-eh2vr]

Jeez - you sound like a Zoom spokesperson! Ain't nothing wrong with the Tascam (not that Zoom is trash). As a (sometimes) solo performer or with my band I can use the Tascam to mix my backing tracks (16) while I play along with guitar, keyboard and vocals. It is equally good in my studio. Why are you complaining about weight - 20 pounds? You sound like Negative Norman - you need to give the money back to Zoom.

[@QuestForGear]

Oh man, busted! My last name is Zoom. Muhahahaha! Sell your Tascams and buy the Zooms everybody!!! Negative Norman Zoom will never give the money back !!!

[@IslandDigital]

This guy calling Tascam idiots. Wow. Please make your decisions based on this guy. In his mommy’s basement.

[@QuestForGear]

First of all, I'm in YOUR mommy's basement. Second of all - you will regret this starting tomorrow. You screwed up bad this time. I am coming for you.

[@mathewworkman1625]

No woman ever visits Robert's basement.Not since the court order.

[@jdawgsmityy]

@@mathewworkman1625 lol

[@GremFandango]

59 years old and this is how you act? Are you ever going to grow up?

[@mathewworkman1625]

@@GremFandango Have you head Robert's awesome elevator music though? It's like Yanni and John Tesh went back to 1987 to write jingles for Zima.

[@IslandDigital]

Everybody get over all this BS specs, etc. find a unit for your liking and get on with it …. I’ll take Tascam ANYDAY! Been using all their products since 1983 I think they have figured out. So stop all this whinning. Dear GOD !! Anybody listen to a Beatles album??? Go look at the what would be PAPER WEIGHT JUNK TODAY for gear. It’s NEVER THE GEAR ITS THE ENGINEER …. I could run circles around all the 5K, 10K dollar equipment with this Tascam ! Zoom. What a joke. Please

[@QuestForGear]

Do you know how many videos I'm going to be able to make about you? You are a gold mine !!

[@GremFandango]

59 years old and this is how you act?

[@jdawgsmityy]

Idiot starts off saying get off the specs, as in - any gear is fine, then says he likes the Tascam and not the Zoom. RObert is as smart as he looks. (HE looks really dumb)

[@photasticimages363]

Dude, the constant, wild camera movement makes this video unwatchable. Sorry.

[@QuestForGear]

234 likes , 16000 views, 90% like ratio and most of my subscribers came from this video. Is the camera work bad? Yeah - it's bad. Are you exaggerating? Yeah - you are exaggerating. It's not 'unwatchable', rather - you would prefer the production quality was better.