Zoom PodTrak P8 vs Rodecaster Pro: Everything You Need to Know for Podcasting & Streaming

[@tombuck]

Chapter Markers: 0:00 - A Wild Competitor Appears 0:50 - Disclosures 2:00 - Zoom P8 Unboxing 2:28 - My Experience with Zoom 3:16 - Clicky Buttons 3:48 - Basic Feature Comparison 5:25 - Color Coded Simplicity 6:54 - Zoom P8 Initial Sound Test 7:45 - Touch Screen Interface 9:30 - Transferring Files to Computer 10:10 - P8 Sound Pads 12:23 - USB Sources & Mix Minus 13:11 - The Insane Gain of the P8 14:20 - PodMic Gain Level Test 15:06 - SM7B Gain Level Test (Incredible!) 18:08 - Zoom P8 Battery Test 20:39 - Pros & Cons of Each Device 22:32 - Firmware Updates 23:00 - The P8’s Biggest Weakness 24:14 - My P8 Impressions 26:55 - More About the Rodecaster

[@jalabi99]

Thanks Tom, I know I had asked you for a video like this a few months ago. Thanks to Sweetwater for getting a Zoom PodTrak P8 out to you. Good luck to everyone in the giveaway! I'll be sticking to the Rodecaster Pro so I'm not entering :)

[@makatron]

Hey Tom just write it in the description for proper chapters. Cheers mate.

[@nicktayloriv310]

@Tom Buck did "da Winnah" make a Thank You Tom video!?!?!?

[@LukasInTaiwan]

Literally ordered the Rodecaster 1h ago thanks to your countless number of videos about it. Never been this scared to see a KZbin review before....

[@tombuck]

Haha, don't worry, I don't plan on making an "I'm Switching" video any time soon. You'll love your Rodecaster!

[@EliseoWay]

I could literally watch you review and compare drinking water and I would still be glued to the screen🤣. The way you shoot and edit your videos are so engaging. This review is soooooo good🔥🔥🔥... Also bro, thanks for jumping on last night, I appreciate you and Heather. 🙌🏾❤

[@tombuck]

Thanks man! I had a great time on the stream yesterday. I love that, even when a guest couldn't make it, you just rolled with it and made it work. That's awesome.

[@JJohnson313]

I have both of these. I run a podcast studio. Really wanted the rodecaster pro experience but with more mics as one of my studio has 4 mics and the other has 6 mic. So happy with the P8 pick up. Even used it with batteries when I went remote one time. I love both of these so much.

[@tombuck]

That’s cool to hear! Sounds like it was definitely the right choice 👍

[@MikeMena]

Dude, the opening introductions are getting really poetic!! LOL 😂🤣

[@tombuck]

They’re taking more and more work, haha 😁

[@RafaelLudwig]

I agree! the intro was great!

[@jameselden]

Tom, I find myself consistently shaking my head at every one of your puns. I think it's because I find myself walking right into them only to chuckle in appreciation of their simplistic brilliance. Keep it up.

[@tombuck]

Each pun is it's own journey 😁

[@willmanderscheid4236]

Great review! One thing to consider with the P8 is purchasing 90 degree adapters for the inputs. This really helps and helps route cables out the back of the unit.

[@tombuck]

That’s a GREAT idea. 👍

[@ColeDeRuse]

sm7b sounds so much better on your vocals in my opinion - thanks for the video bro!

[@HomesickMac]

Loads of puns within the first 20 secs, amazing! Very good comparizon Tom!

[@tombuck]

Gotta set up the "hook" with these intros, you know.

[@Shipwrckdntweetin]

Yuuuup. Had me at the gains pun 👊🏼 Enjoyed!!

[@timcity]

What an amazing video! Can we just celebrate the time and effort Tom puts into these videos? *slow clap* 👏.👏.👏. Great stuff!

[@tombuck]

Thank you! You’re too kind!

[@1jbunceiii]

Just watching this video makes me want to start a podcast!

[@tombuck]

You should! It’s super rewarding and absolutely worth it.

[@bigmike2771]

I have been waiting to see this review for a few weeks and once again didn’t disappoint. Now I’m more pumped to start my sports podcast, and it would be amazing to own a great machine like the Zoom P8. I am ready to inspire others like you have inspired me to step out of my comfort zone. Thanks Tom

[@tombuck]

Good luck with your show! It's realyl fun and rewarding to have a podcast.

[@PostColorGear]

Wow, extensive overview! Very nice! Also the fact that you hit the wrong key around the 10:17 mark and it was THAT sound is just amazing lol

[@tombuck]

Totally serendipitous.

[@twolinesslotcars]

Tom, I have been listening to your podcasting videos. I found you because I was researching launching my own podcast and was curious about the Rodecaster Pro! Your analogy about buying your first new car is exactly where I am right now! I have watched every comparison video out there between the Rode and the Zoom! Paralysis by analysis! This video came at a perfect time! I launched my podcast on Monday because I just couldn’t keep researching and never start! I just had to hit record. My podcast setup is pretty make shift but it is getting the job done at the moment. Thanks for all of your advise, you have really become my authority on gear reviews and podcasting advice. Thank you for what you do! -Marty Ford

[@twolinesslotcars]

Watching them too 🤦🏻‍♂️😂

[@tombuck]

Congrats on your show! Getting started is SO much more important than the gear you're using to get there. That's awesome to hear. And like I said in the video, there are pros and cons to each device, but they're both really great so you really can't go wrong!

[@VicedRhino]

The fact that you talked about the headphone amp is amazing, it is so hard to find info on that for these guys. I think I'll go with the Zoom - the headphone amp & better mic preamp pretty much seal the deal for me, but there were a few other features that I liked better on it as well. Though I agree - I wish it had the inputs on the back, and bigger sliders.

[@tombuck]

The clean headphone amps are super nice and a big improvement over the Rodecaster.

[@mikeg6069]

An advantage of not having the P8's ports come out of the back is that it can slide right up to a wall and take up less tabletop space for those who have configurations like that.

[@vanceshepherd1618]

Tom, you made me feel better about the open box Zoom P8 I just ordered for $279. Minimal investment for dipping my toe in this arena. Once again, you provided another great review. Thank you!

[@tombuck]

Oh my gosh that’s a total steal. You’ll love it and I’m sure it’ll help make some great sounding work! 👍

[@vanceshepherd1618]

@@tombuck it was open box, but I'm still super excited! Arriving today. Thanks again!

[@rocketrollsvlogs7625]

I can't believe I'd not subscribed to your channel. Let me say I love reviewers that admit their bias, loans, gifts, and opinions up front. We're going to watch the whole thing anyway, and where gonna focus more on what you gotta say. Another great review.

[@naormeningher]

I got the zoom. SO HAPPY WITH IT. 2 extra inputs is a HUGE deal

[@tombuck]

I'm so glad to hear it! It's great to know that's it's working out from someone who's been working with it for a while.

[@j.ervinbates6053]

Tom, I loved your showdown video! I recently purchased the Podtrak P8 as well as the P4.

[@tombuck]

Nice! Hope you're enjoying both of them!

[@TB2G]

Hi Tom. I've had a podcast for about a year, and I started with a Zoom H6. I'm on break from the podcast and just startred a live stream show. This is the second vid of yours that I have seen, and I really like how you present.

[@tombuck]

Thanks so much! Good luck with your show!

[@Otromundoparalelo]

Thanks for the advice Tom I just get a dvx 286 with a cloud lifter and the RCP and OML ! I can hear a complete full rich complete and Amazing warm sound!!

[@tombuck]

That’ll definitely give you some great audio! 👏

[@IntrovertAmateur]

Almost everyone in my subbox: DJI Mavic Air 2S Tom: here is episode 18 on the Rodecaster Pro Me: Clicking on the Rodecaster Pro video, although I don‘t have any intention to do any podcast in the future, but I always enjoy these videos, because it truly shows your passion for the Rodecaster. Never seen someone on YT, who made so many videos on just one device. Btw, also awesome podcast episode about online courses 👍! The experience Heather shared is gold!

[@tombuck]

When they zig you zag, right? I thought I was done with Rodecaster videos, but then they did a firmware update and Sweetwater helped me do this giveaway, so I'm right back in it!

[@doctorphil0078]

Man as an older follower your info and reviews are great. I continue to enjoy and follow your channel. I want to start a podcast and the Zoom looks good and not complicated. Hmmm The Over 60 Podcast! Hmmm? Yes sir!

[@tombuck]

Thanks Phil! The Zoom is pretty awesome- be sure to enter the contest!

[@doctorphil0078]

@@tombuck I sure did enter and subscribe. Keep up the good work! Have a great weekend! I see you're a musician too.. so am I! Lol

[@RenaldoQuestelles]

The Audio Quality sounds fuller and richer on the Zoom.

[@tombuck]

I liked it, it definitely has a great sound.

[@robinbaker1589]

Another GREAT video!! I wish I had had the ability to see it yesterday. I just order the RodeCaster and 4 Podmics for my HS media program. Still excited about it though. Thanks for the info.

[@tombuck]

It’s a great choice for a school program, especially since it’s more durable than the Zoom. My students loved using the Rodecaster.

[@robinbaker1589]

@@tombuck Thanks! I can't wait to get my hands on it!

[@carlrogueofficial]

Voice quality was better with the P8 regardless of microphone. I'm glad I saw this video, I'm going to purchase the p8.

[@tombuck]

I hope you enjoy it! It's a super nice mixer.

[@PATRICKCASTILLO]

The US only comment broke my heart ❤️:(... great show! Toms minutes are the fastest minutes on the whole web! Really really really good honest and fair comparison video. Well planned, great value of information, to the point, The content in the frame is eye candy, the audio = ear candy...Very entertaining and as always very funny!

[@tombuck]

I really appreciate that Patrick!! Don't worry, if I'm able to do a giveaway again in the future, I'll find a way to open up beyond the US. 👍

[@PATRICKCASTILLO]

@@tombuck it’s the thaught that counts. God bless you more!

[@PhillipBridgesReviews]

Very nice alternative. Love my Rode though. I will not do the giveaway to give others in need a better chance. Pre grats to the winner. Welcome to the podcast world.

[@guymeetskitchen1576]

Good man

[@tombuck]

You're too kind! Hopefully the winner really puts it to good use.

[@TonyBabarino]

Great review! I entered the contest! My goodness, I really could use the Zoom PodTrack! Thank you for making this possible! :)

[@tombuck]

Good luck Tony!

[@TonyBabarino]

@@tombuck Thank you Tom! 😊👍

[@travismanney6203]

Love your videos, you inspire people to want to podcast! I am starting my podcast “The Shenanigan Show” next month and this would definitely take it to the next level... so 🤞🏻🤞🏻 lol

[@tonyantoine5823]

Another clear and honest video Tom, great job as always. So many great choices out here.

[@tombuck]

Thank you kindly!

[@TransplantHelper]

I have the PodTrak P4 and I absolutely love it!! I would definitely enjoy having the P8 to expand my capabilities and options. I entered to win and look forward to congratulating the winner…even if it’s me. Love your channel. Great content and excellent quality

[@tombuck]

Thank you and good luck! I’ll select the winner tomorrow morning 👍

[@imdealingwith]

Need this, ImDealingWith podcast.....If not me, then congrats to the prospective winner in advanced...best wishes to all

[@willieleehendersonlll]

Thank you for this informative video. I'm starting a fitness podcast and Im going with the rodecaster pro.

[@tombuck]

I’m sure it will be a great fit for your fitness workflow!

[@ProfBrown]

I like the ports out the back too, but it certainly seems to be personal. I saw some videos where people thought the XLR inputs on the top were better. Nice comparison between the two.

[@tombuck]

It’s totally a personal preference thing, I know lots of big pro mixers have everything on top.

[@Garth020762]

Tom, every single time I view one of your videos, I am so jealous of what equipment you work with...this P8 would be a perfect first piece of equipment to launch a podcast curiousity and exciting move to start with. Well done review sir. Nice to see competition for the Rode.

[@tombuck]

Thank you! And I agree, competition like this is good for everyone.

[@scotthowardmedia]

Great review. This made my purchasing decision less stressful after having your impartial professional insight.

[@tombuck]

Im glad to hear that! Hopefully you get what works for you 👍

[@Jbandes]

I love that sm-7b microphone. I have one on my roadcaster I still recommend however getting a cloudlifter preamp. You don't absolutely need it but the extra gain is very helpful.

[@tombuck]

The Sm7B has a pretty big reputation to live up to, and I definitely think it shines best when it has plenty of gain (which is a huge reason I was so excited about the P8 in this case).

[@markexploringnewstuff]

The comparison I have been waiting for! I wish there was a clear winner - hate it when both have pluses. Great summary of pluses for each.

[@tombuck]

There's definitely not a clear winner, which is both frustrating and relieving 😁

[@spiritmediumdaniel7161]

we have the podtrak, my wife runs the board on a table in front of the interview table. so the cords run under that table and over to her's, so none of the cables are in the way of the board, also with your mics being right there next to the board, the clicky button sounds may be picked up where as our mic's are a good three feet away. we use a cord for the phone calls, we don't want to rely on the blutooth possibly dropping a call. I did notice that with the shure mic you have much more bass in your voice through the podtrak as opposed to the rode mic that sounds kinda thin. We're just starting but some day would love to have that mic. We bought our podtrak from amazon, they offered us their credit card and as a bonus to having it they gave us another 100 dollars off the podtrak, so it only cost us 399.00. Really enjoyed your video and learned a lot. Subscribed. Thanks.

[@tombuck]

That's a great deal! Thanks for sharing some experience after using it in the "real world" for a chunk of time. That's always helpful!

[@djmickeyTV]

Thank you I've been waiting for you to review and compare these

[@JeremyLeech]

As soon as this was announced, I was more interested in the p8 simply because it had the 2 extra XLR inputs and headphone inputs. I ended up going with a behringer 1820 interface and headphone rack mount solution (both were on sale. Saved over $100 each) but the form factor of the p8 makes it more interesting again.

[@tombuck]

6 inputs is awesome, and I know I said it a bunch in the video, but the amount of gain is incredible. It really does make a difference knowing you can use just about any mic with this thing.

[@JeremyLeech]

@@tombuck that’s the main selling point honestly. I use an SM7B and the podmic. (As well as the re320) and the more gain the better. And this thing has a ton of it!

[@Ken-hr8qq]

I really appreciate this video I’m starting a podcast with a few females and you helped me decide which one to get. I have ordered it yet but today I may thanks your video helped

[@tombuck]

I'm glad to hear that! I hope you all have a ton of fun with your new podcast!

[@cmbruno46]

Great video as usual!! I know you’re incredibly busy but have you thought about doing a video on the Zoom Podtrak P4? Seems like a great low budget option, but I’d love to hear your thoughts.

[@tombuck]

It seems awesome! I actually did preorder one when it first came out, but cancelled the order since I didn’t really NEED it.

[@cmbruno46]

I completely understand, thanks for the reply!

[@BasicFilmmaker]

What if I want both? :)

[@tombuck]

You can connect one to the other and gain super powers!

[@BasicFilmmaker]

@@tombuck Yeah! You forgot, "Affiliate linkS below!" :)

[@tombuck]

Oh yeah! By two from each link!

[@BahasaDrum]

Tom, great job as always! May you please review the Zoom P4? 🙏🏽

[@tombuck]

I've never used the P4 myself yet, but from what I know it's pretty awesome Curtis Judd has an excellent video on it that I definitely recommend.

[@fireice158]

Yesss, thank you for this review!!! I've been in the market for one of these and have been grappling with whether I should get the PodTrak or the Rodecaster. Good to know that you can't go wrong with either! Can't wait to see how Zoom supports and improves the firmware over time.

[@tombuck]

You really can't go wrong either way, but as far as firmware, I don't think anyone can beat Rode. Even their beta versions are awesome, and it seems like they do multiple updates each year!

[@gentlemanlygerry]

1980s Casio dog barking for the win. 🐩. 😆. But in all seriousness this was an enjoyable and informative video. Thank you. Going to share your rodecaster pro playlist to a friend of mine who has one as is planning on using it for a podcast and is currently using it to record a modern radio-play. Thanks again for this chuckle. Stay safe and stay awesome. Gerry 🙃✌️

[@tombuck]

Thanks Gerry! Can't get enough of the Casio!

[@ric_b_c]

I use the Rodecaster Pro for my university clases and teaching online. It is very easy to handle it. I started in corona time using Mode Tools for my teaching and the Best Thing is the record function. So you can use Rode for online Tests and to Note ideas of the Studens. Thanx for your reviews. Nico

[@tombuck]

The past year has really helped (or forced) a lot of us to level up our skills!

[@ericrichardson5006]

Excellent comparison review and just what I needed to know. I have enjoyed all of the videos I have watched from your channel. My first Podcast production is in the works and your videos have been invaluable to that process. 😀

[@tombuck]

This is so great to hear! I'm glad the videos have been helpful. Best of luck with your show!

[@ChaseTheSummit]

Nice one Tom! One thing I would have liked to see you talk about was the Noise Gate vs Noise Reduction between the rode and zoom. Also, are you concerned about the 16 bit 44.1khz limitation? Other than that you checked all the boxes!

[@tombuck]

That’s true. The 44.1 limit could be an issue for me since I often use it for video, which likes 48. If only there were another in-depth comparison people could watch 🤔😉

[@tottenhamteacher]

@@tombuck main reason why I went with the L-8. Might be more technical or intimidating for some but there will always be some upside an downside. I remember Curtis Judd talking about how he felt they stripped the P8 down where it didn’t need to be; I think he was referencing not having 48 but here’s hoping they help out those who’ll buy the P8. I’m going to be running my last test on the L-8 and see if I don’t end up going with the RCP but I’m mixing so many different mics and as always... combo jacks 😅 I also imagine the headphone inputs are about as noisey as the RCP. Thanks for the comparison video Tom. Edit: I referred to the wrong the device but have updated it a bit.

[@tombuck]

This is good to hear- I’ve been wondering about the differences between the P8 and the L8.

[@stephensauceda]

I love Sweetwater! So awesome of them to hook you up!

[@tombuck]

They're really great! I've used them for years, so I was excited when they reached out and offered help with the channel.

[@IntheKeyofWill]

Hi Tom! Great video. As a weekly podcaster for the last four years, I am looking to help make my workflow quicker. I thank you for your video. I was just wondering if you’re using Cloud Lifters on both devices or only the Rodecaster?

[@seaninherts]

Hi there. Thanks for the content. Yes, re zoom. The H1s are about $100 v my F8 which is about $800. Even the H2n for $180 ish is not bad but you do get what you pay for sometimes. The plastic bits is how they can do such great kit with such awesome pre amps.

[@tombuck]

That's kind of what I've figured since the sound quality is always outstanding. I guess they gotta save costs somewhere 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@StruggleSwingGolf]

I absolutely love my P4, and am hoping to win the P8. Good review, Tom. Love your videos.

[@tombuck]

Good luck!!

[@charlietighe]

Just in time! Starting up a podcast and was going to go usb over xlr due to cost, but this may have tipped the scales.

[@tombuck]

XLR really does offer a lot more versatility 👍

[@RelevanceForTodayMinistry]

Lol you crack me up..... also thanks for also giving us an opportunity to win the zoom Podtrak!!

[@tombuck]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@energybrown]

Great detailed comparison! I've just ordered a P8 🙂

[@tombuck]

I hope you really enjoy it!

[@luk7n]

Finally a solution that gives the SM7B enough gain to sound how it´s supposed to

[@zatoichiable]

The deal breaker for me is the huge gain in the podtrak p8.... the cleaner the signal the better...

[@tombuck]

Yep, all gain is not created equal.

[@donniehutto5665]

Great video and in depth review. I was waiting to find out the difference in the two units, and as always you did a great job explaining.

[@tombuck]

I’m so glad to hear that! Thank you!

[@panzerschreckpete]

interestingly here in NZ, the PodTrak is actually more expensive than the Rodecaster Pro - NZ$989 for the rodecaster Pro vs NZ$1000 for the Pre-order price for the P8. I've started with a budget option in the Maonocaster AM100 which cost me NZ$400 landed including taxes and freight direct. That savings has allowed me to add a Cloudlifter and some better quality cabling. I'm not a SM7b fan, appreciate the quality but I'm just a hobbyist podcaster co-host and videographer - so the price in NZ is not justifiable for me. Great comparison video.

[@tombuck]

How interesting! It's strange how these things fluctuate around the world.

[@panzerschreckpete]

@@tombuck I think we're spoiled here with Rode as they are so close. Basically double the US price to take account of our taxes and excahnge rate - still makes Rode an option due to quality.

[@cjpreyes]

Woah!! Sir Tom!!! Your always one step ahead!! Haha!! Old videos I see in KZbin you make it new.. so cool! It's almost like your kind off reading our minds.. haha especially mine! Hmmm.. was this post earlier than the public post. Your comment was 2 weeks ago. Anyways!! Love what you do sir! Keep it up! ^_^

[@tombuck]

Thank you! I really appreciate that! And good eye- I usually post and schedule the videos early, so sometimes the pinned comment date doesn’t make sense.

[@cjpreyes]

@@tombuck haha!! Til your next video ^_^

[@kovafilms]

Great review! Best one I've found on youtube. So I've been podcasting with the Zoom for a couple months now and I gotta say I'm so glad I got the Zoom over the rodecaster! I don't think the Zoom is inherently better than the Rode, just a more Professional device overall... The biggest thing I like is how everything can be adjusted on the device itself no need for software. From what ive heard from Professional audio guys for live events, the size of Faders doesn't totally matter, what matters more is the inputs for headphones and mic inputs are clearly visible on the top of the board, that way you have a clear visual of what's connected and what's not (most audio boards are built like this for that reason). Overall I think the Rode is not bad but focused more on aesthetics instead of making the best professional board available. I think it's a complete mistake/miss that they don't have at least 70db of gain to power most pro condenser microphones. I mean more mic inputs, better filing system, power options, CHEAPER. I'd rather skip aesthetics for a better long-term investment. Again great content!

[@tombuck]

Thank you! I really do wish the Rodecaster had the gain of the Zoom 🤤

[@mattwruff]

Nice review! My biggest complaint is the MICRO SD card on the Rodecaster so I just plug it in via USB-C and NEVER take it out. Like you i’m happy with my Rode and agree with you about Zoom products I had over the years. I set my Rode up new every week and since it normally just me the inputs on TOP would be easier. If you were NEW it would be a much harder pick on which one I would pick I think. FYI yes I did enter the giveaway because I’m going to Africa some time this year and allways looking for stuff to giveaway over there.

[@tombuck]

I also leave mine plugged in all the time and it's pretty much on all day every day. Fortunately I have a micro sd hub right next to my computer, so it's pretty simple to use the card when needed, but wow, a full size SD would've been much easier. Good luck with the contest! We're currently up to 170 entries at the moment.

[@Spikespiguel]

I love my rodecaster and podmics I get intermittent use from the Bluetooth but the dedicated usbc gets a LOT of use.

[@tombuck]

Me too, basically every day. 👍

[@Spikespiguel]

@@tombuck now that the audio quality is on point I just need to find a way to make my show not suck🤷

[@MoeMeta]

Wow i watched this video for no reason but to support your channel. But I learned something about the hiss I'm going to try it out for my Goxlr and cloudlifter sm7b setup that I use to make videos on yt

[@tombuck]

Thanks for being supportive!

[@AaronAbernethy]

Good luck to the giveaway entrants!

[@radioprobromania]

Hello Tom, can you tell me please if SM7B sound more quality on P8 or Rodecaster ? I use Rodecaster with SM7B and i need some extra high frequency. I think P8 can give me that option. Thank you 🙏 PS: I use those for broadcasting live.

[@tombuck]

The sound quality without any EQ will be pretty much the same. The difference will be in gain since you'll need a Cloudlifter with the Rodecaster for the SM7B, but you don't need one with the P8.

[@radioprobromania]

@@tombuck So, if u put Cloudlifter on Rodecaster will be more quality on my SM7B ? Thank you !

[@tombuck]

It’s a very quiet mic that needs a lot of gain to sound it’s best.

[@radioprobromania]

@@tombuck Thank you for answer. So, Rodecaster Pro is not enough for give me a good gain for SM7B ?

[@muziky2k]

Would love to hear a review of the Rode Procaster if you ever get a chance. I think your voice would be perfect for that mic. Hey, Sweetwater! Help us out. lol

[@tombuck]

I'm so curious about that one! Might have to call in another favor 😁

[@RenaldoQuestelles]

Ahhh... to you point on portability if all the ins on top your can put it in case and have easier access to the ins and outs. @zoom should hire me for PR. 🤣

[@tombuck]

Oooh, very true!

[@ac1320]

At 24:00 in I realized something. It seems to me they built the P8 to live in some type of Pelican case. Slap in batteries and a card, drop in a hard case, off you go. All cables are easy access up top. Hmmm.

[@tombuck]

That would make a lot of sense and would keep it protected. I still would've liked to see better build quality though!

[@ac1320]

@@tombuck yup, agreed.. Prolly how they cut that $100 off the Rodecaster.

[@leokeller]

Watched the whole video and was so excited for the giveaway, but then I hear it's US only :( Great video Tom, looks like an awesome device!

[@tombuck]

I wish international shipping wasn’t so expensive! Depending on where someone lives it can almost equal the cost of the device itself sometimes 🤭

[@gregweir3380]

Just want to say thank you! Your videos have helped my friends and I drastically increase our podcast quality and speed up our workflow. I was comparing these two and ultimately went with the Rodecaster because we were also getting all rode microphones, it just made sense. I used your links for everything too so I hope that gave you a bit of a kick back 😅

[@tombuck]

Wow thank you! I’m so glad to hear about your show. And thanks for using the links, it actually does make a huge difference.

[@DJ.DBD1]

Hey Tom 👋🏽 great review, quick question I'm a mobile DJ. Can I use my Powered Speakers & add I continue a CD controller to this units ??? Thanks a million 😁... I would like use one of these, instead of a Mackie Pro FX10v3 mixer

[@tombuck]

I would definitely look into the RCPII which has better output functionality. You might need to run it through a DI before going to a bigger sound system, but it can get the job done.

[@TheBraps]

I have the rodecast and I love it, but when I bought it there was no other option for an all in one solution. I think if I were to buy now it would be a very long thought over process trying decide between these two but would probably have gone with the P8 due to the cost savings of not having to pick up the cloud lifter for my SM7B's

[@tombuck]

That's a _huge_ benefit. They're both great, but I really do love the Rodecaster. I think the firmware updates are huge too, and I have a feeling that Zoom won't be as active with theirs as Rode. The rodecaster has been reinvented several times since release, and that's awesome.

[@linoguy503]

You sound great on the SM7b!

[@tombuck]

Thank you! It really is a terrific mic.

[@AD6DMDennis]

Tying my brain in knots again with the puns and alliteration

[@tombuck]

You're welcome and/or I'm sorry.

[@SkyCharter]

Thanks for explaining the pre-amp gain difference between the two as I didn't know this. Indeed if a product's design is to mop up extra gadgets, like your external mic preamp, then this becomes one subtle, but important point. All hail the full size SD Card. Another difference I noted from the specs (and only important for bit depth purists) is Zoom's 16 vs. RODE's 24 bit A/Ds. Yeah any final product rendered in 16 bit is going to be just fine, but there is a point to be made for more bit depth for the audio streams feeding (adding) to the final cut.

[@tombuck]

"Mop up extra gadgets" - I like that! 😁

[@muyiwaadebiyi5100]

Keep rocking the dad jokes, my friend and I say good luck to everyone for the giveaway.

[@arhauz9719]

this is nice, Sir Tom! i now have a better option...esp the additional gain zoom P8 can give!

[@tombuck]

It's so nice to have that much gain! That's the biggest selling point to me.

[@shybzrk]

Hey Tom, not sure if you'd see this on an 8 month old video but I'd love to see you review the GoXLR and/or GoXLR mini by TC Helicon. Tons of streamers have them. I was highly considering the Rodecaster Pro but it's a bit out of my price range while the GoXLR is on sale for $400. Would like to hear your take

[@tombuck]

Has it been 8 months already?! I’ve never used the GoXLR myself, but I’ve heard great things. I love the on board recording features that both of these offer.

[@MSladekPhoto]

Nicely done, sir! That 70dB of gain is sweeeeet. Quiet headphone monitoring is juicy. Top-mounted headphone and mic inputs is poopy. It's like the manufactures learn lessons from each other, but not everything they need to learn to create the one magic unicorn device to rule them all. *sigh* Having said that, I would be super delighted to be the lucky recipient of this awesome Zoom P8 :)

[@tombuck]

Just enter by Saturday! We're up to almost 200 people so far, so the odds aren't too bad really. "Juicy or Poopy" is a great tagline to put on a review thumbnail.

[@MSladekPhoto]

@@tombuck Already entered! I think I'll stick to my doughnut rating system for my reviews ;)

[@Gutter22]

No issue with headphone preamps here on my Rodecaster.

[@mikeg6069]

Tremendous comparison. But you didn't even mention one of the touted features of the P8. On board editing. I've been rocking with the P8 for a few months on my daily podcast. I don't have need for the editing features, but they do seem kinda cool.

[@tombuck]

I’ll be honest, I couldn’t get a good hang of it and it’s not a part of my workflow, so it kind of slipped my mind. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@mikeg6069]

@@tombuck I don't use it either and I don't see myself ever needing to use it. So I can understand why you didn't remember it. But it's a major thing from Zoom's perspective and some/many may find it to be very useful.

[@MarkSmith82]

Something you pointed out on the rodecaster was the soundpads have different soundbanks. Then on the Zoom P8, you went into the soundpads, but didn't mention that that ALSO has different soundbanks.

[@tombuck]

It does- that's my fault for not mentioning it.

[@lancelot222]

That intro was AWESOME!! :D And any rough update on when u think ur course might be ready?? or when ur hoping it will be ready :)

[@tombuck]

Course comes out the first week of May! It’s all finished and the group of people who preordered it are beta testing at the moment before its public release 👍 I’m really proud of it.

[@TomMattle]

Thank you for your videos! I really enjoy them! I started a podcast over the quarantine and the P8 would be a great addition to my set up! Hoping I win!! 🙃🙃

[@tombuck]

Good luck!

[@BOSRouter]

Could you make a Video abaut the dbx 286s or somthing like that. I see many pepole using it withe the SM7b and a Focusrite scarlett 2i2, but i dont konow what it does

[@tombuck]

I don't have one, but the DBX is a mic preamp, basically a bigger, beefier version of a Cloudlifter to boost the mic's signal. 👍

[@jessiejames715]

What an awesome review, well done. Thank you!

[@tombuck]

Thank you! I really appreciate the kind feedback!

[@jessiejames715]

@@tombuck you have just earned yourself a new subscriber.

[@catarinor.3948]

Wow I would be interested in seeing how it handles 6 sm7b mics at the same time. That would require a lot of power out

[@tombuck]

That would be a great experiment! I just need 5 more mics 😁

[@bobbtopgun]

TERRIFIC comparison review - KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK Tom!! The Zoom PodTrak P8 has 9 physical sound pads with a total of four "virtual" banks for a grand total of 36 sounds assuming my math is correct :-). Another very interesting feature the Zoom PodTrak P8 has is an automatic noise reduction option for each input channel. The benefit of this is when someone is not talking background noise on that input channel is automatically reduced to help eliminate background noise on that input channel. Depending on the purpose it's being used for, unless there's been a firmware update a potential shortcoming is that the Zoom PodTrak P8 apparently only supports 44.1 kHz 16-bit sampling rate and not the video standard 48 kHz, although I understand this would not necessarily be a problem if the intent is to upload a video recorded or live stream podcast to KZbin.

[@tombuck]

Math is hard, but I do think you're right! I'm hopeful that Zoom will work on some firmware updates to bring in more functionality. They don't have a great history of doing that, but Rode has set the bar pretty high, and that competition can be good for everyone.

[@erhantimur]

Great comparison, very clear and concise.

[@mad0214]

Great review. I wasn’t aware of this and the price is nice. Ideally I would love something like the p4 but in the p8 format/layout but it probably doesn’t make much sense for zoom to do this. I’ve been looking forward to this review.

[@tombuck]

I’ve had lots of people say they’re interested in a “Mini Rodecaster” so I think there’s definitely a market for something like that. Maybe that where to GoXLR comes in to play?

[@PodcastMeister]

I think the GoXLR is more for streamers than for podcasters. You can set up a USB mix minus, but for phone integration I would choose any of the P4-P8-Rodecaster Pro trio seven days a week and twice on sunday.

[@lachlansands57]

Great video as always! Would loved to have entered - if only you lived in Australia!

[@tombuck]

I wish I could ship international! But hey, you can always storm the Rode factory 😁

[@morgenmicha]

The Bluetooth Quality of the Zoom is much better. On my Zoom p4. Think the P8 Sound is also good.

[@danmastrapa]

Fantastic and thorough comparison! Appreciate it!

[@tombuck]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DavidBrackett385]

interesting vid! it seems the headphone amps on the p8 are great opposed to the p4. I have the p4 and they are noisyyyyyyyyy

[@tombuck]

I think the P4 has to make some compromises because of its size. They likely had to use different components, but that small form factor is super cool.

[@ScottOtt]

Are there differences in the recording sample bit rate. I thought I had heard the P8 couldn't do 48khz

[@michael.unplugged]

I tried connecting my zoom podtrak to my atem mini pro. However the Blackmagic software is not recognizing the connection? Any advice on how i can get my gear connected.