Zoom F8n Review

[@magirux]

hands down the most professional, detailed, clear better looking reviews on youtube... i dont get how other channels with less quality work have more subscribers than Curtis. thank you for all the time you put into the videos and help people like me all the time to make the right decision when buying.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Alesky, that makes my day!

[@AntonioMeres]

0:10 Summary

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Antonio!

[@EdMartinIMN]

Curtis I wanted to compliment you on your channel and reviews. If I were doing this I would want to emulate your approach. You do a fantastic job but what comes through most of all is, in a word, integrity. To me this means you can be trusted. As a result I actually purchased the Zoom F8n and the recommended battery pack and extra cables from links. You are very professional as well. Great lighting, focus, views, explanations, etc. I really can't imaging how this type of content could be any better than you do it. So thank you very much for not only what you do but how you do it. A agree with Alexky below - I don't understand how you are not #1 because there is nobody better AND you are obviously a high caliber person of great integrity and character. It just comes though in everything you do.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks so much Ed, this makes my day!

[@paulrobinson6548]

Curtis, I wish I had found your channel a couple of weeks ago - before I bought a lot of gear. Great channel.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Paul. Best wishes on your projects!

[@qwiklok]

Excellent. Bought one based on your reveiws. I had in mind a Mix-Pre, but fell through, then this F8 upgraded version came up from a film maker in Toronto, with cables and all upgrades in place. It is a bit of a learning curve. The more I use it, the more I like it. The more I listen over and over to your training to get the best. I did my first large / medium concert band / choir last Saturday Mar 18, 350 seats, big sold out crowd AND 2 cameras as well. I used the F8 App on my Samsung - A GAMECHANGER! Again, from your advice. For Power, I have the Sony NP big blocks that give ample power through an adapter mounted directly on the 1/4" screw mount. It will take a few months and other sessions to really get up to speed, proper mic placement, etc, but having up to 8 tracks is a gamechanger from the 2 XLR on the Sony cameras. Well done. Grateful.

[@curtisjudd]

Glad it is working well for you. Keep making great sound!

[@qwiklok]

@Curtis Judd Your training videos are or should be a standard for all .A superb teacher. it's actually enjoyable to listen and learn. Great voice too. thanks again

[@curtisjudd]

@@qwiklok 🙏🎙️

[@dakotafilms]

Chris, I look forward to your insights and wisdom on the new zoom Fn8 pro and perhaps how it now fairs up against the Sound devices Mix Pre-6-10 series. all the best and thanks for your videos

[@curtisjudd]

Looking forward to it as well! If the F8n Pro just adds 32-bit float, I suspect happy ZOOM owners will want to stick with the F8n Pro and happy MixPre II owners will want to stick with the MixPre.

[@dakotafilms]

@@curtisjudd Fair enough, I believe it is now 32 bit float which why my interest about your take on the new model and an updated comparison to the Mix-pre series. thanks again

[@curtisjudd]

@@dakotafilms Will definitely cover that. Thanks!

[@CD-sk1ur]

Thank you very much for your review. It is so nice to have a detailed non-partison opinion before making a $1000 purchase.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@TheRealGunGuyTV]

Outstanding review. Thank you, Curtis.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks 👍

[@svpsvp3382]

Your reviews are way ahead of anyone else in clarity, expertise and the benefit or none of the various items into your work flow.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks.

[@svpsvp3382]

Curtis Judd Thanks

[@MaurizioDiBerardino]

Thank you so much for this great review Curtis, really loved the honest point of view! I think I'm going to choose the Zoom F8n, more inputs are going to be useful for what I'm going to need it for.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks, good choice and happy recording!

[@nickdoum]

Excellent review and round up Curtis, I am totally happy with my Zoom F8n

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Nick, happy recording! 🎤

[@makatron]

The visiting this video, now watching in my TV, that close up shot looks incredibly sharp. Things you can't appreciate watching in my tiny 6 inch phone.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@ProjectOverseer]

Excellent review, Curtis (as always) Automix is more noticeable when several mic's are used in a multi wireless/connected mic situation. This is what I've observed on the older F8 which has recently added this excellent feature.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Chris.

[@manfredzueg4201]

Hello Curtis, thank you very much for all your excellent reviews. One question: do you think that a new Zoom F9 or F10 will soon be released, perhaps even slightly larger in size to be used on a table and not necessarily on the shoulders?

[@curtisjudd]

I haven't heard anything about an upcoming F series release from ZOOM.

[@manfredzueg4201]

@@curtisjudd thank you very much for the reply. What I hope is that in the next F8n Pro (or F9 / F10) they also add the possibility of 32 bit float. Who knows they won't listen to me... ;-)

[@curtisjudd]

@@manfredzueg4201 I'm afraid they also do not listen to me, either.

[@Jens_Frislev]

Thank you Curtis. I will join your F8n course when I receive my F8n

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@SilentDProductions]

I'm starting out as a beginner in working on location sound and I'm FINALLY building my kit. This is going to be a perfect edition for me starting out in this field. Thank you so much for this detailed review. This helps me feel confident for when I purchase this very soon (without breaking too much of my bank). Good thing I waited for this to come out. I was really leaning towards the original Zoom F8....until I saw some of the reviews (overall neutral). Again, thank you for this video.

[@SoundSpeeding]

Remember that many of the reviews of the original F8 are prior to it getting the many firmware updates that have MASSIVELY improved what was an originally still a very good recorder! Also another factor is prior to the F8 then Zoom had an *AWFULLY TERRIBLE* reputation, thus a lot of the early reviews of the F8 came from that perspective of skepticism and hesitation. But in the years since the original F8 then Zoom has proved themselves in the field many times over and over again with their F series.

[@curtisjudd]

One thing I'm curious about is how well Zoom does in terms of support if something breaks. SD is pretty legendary on the support/repair front, at least in the US. Any experience with Zoom support?

[@curtisjudd]

Good luck. I hope it works well for you!

[@SoundSpeeding]

Of course there is no comprehensive scientific double blind study comparing Zoom vs Sound Devices customer support, so I can only go off my impressions. But based on my hundreds and hundreds of hours over the years in hanging out every week (heck, daily at times) on jwsoundgroup, plus the two dedicated F8 usergroups, and tonnes of other online sound groups, then my gut feeling is Zoom is being at least equally good if not even better in terms of supporting the F series and listening to feedback as Sound Devices is being with their MixPre customer service. As I've been nothing but thoroughly impressed with Zoom's responsiveness whenever I've come across it (not that I've personally ever experienced any problems, but this is from what I've observed with others).

[@curtisjudd]

Good to hear. My experience has been good as well. The only thing that has ever gone wrong with my three Zoom F-series recorders is that one of the rubber feet came off of the F4. Otherwise, rock solid!

[@RayOrtega]

Whoa! Auto-mix included in F8 firmware update! Thanks for the heads up. I haven't messed with the F8 since I was on tour and I certainly wasn't going to mess with firmware updates then lol. That's fantastic that Zoom included it for the F8.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, great to see new features even on older hardware. Shows that they put plenty of horsepower in the original.

[@mercadofamily7403]

Thanks for the unbiased review. Definitely will budget for this baby to replace my tascam setup. Really need the limiters to be able to record dynamic marching band music with good gain.

[@curtisjudd]

You’re welcome. Happy recording!

[@BrannonNod]

I'm excited I just picked up one from Reverb It's title a Never Used for 650.00 OBO I offered 600.00 they excepted supposed to be here Saturday 👍

[@curtisjudd]

Congrats and happy recording!

Great review Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Allan!

[@lumbraproductions]

Thank you!! You explain this very well. I will be purchasing this!!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks and happy recording!

[@victorfilm_]

Great review, Curtis.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks.

[@adamlee2550]

Mine should come in a day or two and I'm so excited to get out there and record all kinds of things. I can live with the cons that you have listed as my fingers are normal size and I don't work on film projects.

[@curtisjudd]

👍 congrats and happy recording!

[@jonathancaro6420]

Awesome information! Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@Dmeekification]

Hi Curtis! Is the Sound Devices mix pre-6 still your first choice for $1000 range recorder? A lot of information I see about the Zoom F8 in comparison is on the last version of the And not the “n”. I’ve been recording audio professionally for 20 years but have only recently dabbled in video so I’m trying to get the best sound quality I can for a documentary I’m attempting to make without going overboard quite yet. Obviously I’ll need to find myself doing a lot more videography before I justify getting equipment that matches my home studio but I know you talked about the newest Zoom Fn sounding better than the last version and was wondering how that compares to the Sound Devices MixPre-6. Is this Sound Devices still the clear winner? Thanks for making another great video😉

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Dmeekification, The Zoom F8 and F8n have identical preamps and analogue to digital converters from what I can tell so I don't think there's a raw improvement in audio quality. The headphone amp is a little louder than the original and the inputs are line/mic selectable. The hirose power input can take higher voltages on the F8n. But after that, most of the changes are software. In my mind, the sound of the preamps in the Zoom and MixPre series are very, very close. So for me, that would not be the factor I look to when deciding which to purchase. Instead I would consider the number of XLR inputs you need. With the F8n, you get 8 and with the MixPre-6 you get 4. Then there are some ergonomic choices. I prefer the MixPre in terms of operation during a recording/shoot with the exception of the headphone/menu encoder which is on the side of the recorder. This makes it near impossible to access if you'll have it in a sound bag during a shoot. If not, Then I prefer the MixPre. The Zoom has AutoMix, though I haven't found it to be quite aggressive enough to make a pristine multi-mic mix. The MixPre has a re-mix feature where you can re-mix a recording you have already made. You'll want to consider which approach would work better for your projects. The F8n has a hirose power input whereas the MixPre-6 has a USB-C input for power. Hirose in nice because it locks and you can use very large capacity pro-level cine batteries. USB-C power is nice because there are a million USB-C battery banks out there that could power your mixer through a shoot. Both now have options to add a physical control surface. Zoom makes their own F-Control and Sound Devices supports several third-party mixing USB surfaces. Those for the MixPre are more affordable, but not purpose-built for the MixPre. So that's a consideration as well. You can see that there are a lot of different factors. For my particular work, I usually bring my MixPre-10T along as a backup to my Sound Devices 633. I hope that helps shed a little light on the considerations. Best wishes!

[@Photoeye65]

Thanks. Curtis

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Jeff.

[@aaronfriedman8201]

Great review again!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Aaron.

[@robertserrano8992]

One of the best on the Tube, great review. Gotta get you over the 100,000 hump.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Robert!

[@MylesDavid]

Great review! Super thorough!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@laurentb.2064]

Hello Curtis ! What an impressive review (and easy to understand for a newbie like me). I have 2 questions about F8n (and F8n Pro). 1. Is the Sub Out 1/2 output a 3.5 mm minijack stereo line-out output, which can behave exactly like the Zoom H6 line-out and can send audio to a stereo hifi system ? 2. If we connect EXH-6 input capsule (to get 2 extra XLR/TRS combo inputs), will F8n (F8n Pro) be able record 10 tracks on SD cards ? Thank you

[@curtisjudd]

Yes and yes. 👍

[@laurentb.2064]

@@curtisjudd Hi Curtis. Thank you for your reply. About your second "yes" : does F8n Pro record 10 isolated channels (H8n Pro inputs 1 to 8 + EXH-6 inputs 1 & 2) ? Thanks.

[@curtisjudd]

@@laurentb.2064 Yes 10 isolated channels, but when you record 10 isolated channels, it cannot also record a stereo mix.

[@devonbiker]

Would you say the F8n sounds better compared to a USB audio interface plugged into a DAW? I've done some home recordings using Presonus Audiobox 22VSL - guitar/vocals sort of thing. I've just plugged the Zoom F8n into my DAW (Studio One 4) and it sounds really good. I've never seen the Zoom F8n or similar ever mentioned by those comparing USB audio interfaces?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, it is very good in terms of audio quality either as a field recorder or a USB interface. The signal path is identical in both cases. And that means that it is probably better than a lot of budget interfaces out there. However, it is a little more fiddly to use as an interface vs. dedicated interfaces in terms of needing to go to the menus to enter AIF mode each time. But if that's not a problem for you, then it is a great 2-in-1 option.

[@mathewcoulliette2233]

I was going to ask you if you could run the Zoom F8n off a v-mount battery if I bought a Hirose to d-tap cable; but you covered that in your video. Way to go!!!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@jacobchmielowiec7199]

Nice work. I think you answered my questions.

[@curtisjudd]

👍🏻

[@JamesMatthewGallagher]

Will you be doing a follow-up on the F8n Pro version?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes.

[@joeygwood]

So the f8n Pro was just released. When can we expect a first impressions video? Wondering if it's worth $1,100USD or if I should just buy a used f8n.

[@curtisjudd]

I've got the F8n Pro on pre-order. Will talk about it once it arrives.

[@wilswilcox]

Your reviews are the BEST! I've just now seen on the B&H website that the Zoom F8n has been discontinued. I hate to see that and hope they don't let us down. I've been anxious to see how they upgrade the F8n in future versions but do not want to see it go away. If they upgrade the F8n and make improvements such as offering USB-C or 32-bit float, I am all in for the new one. Do you have any information on whether there will be a successor? If so, please do a review when it is available and let us know if it is worth the upgrade. If not, please let us know what other options there are to the F8n that tick all the same boxes. One of the things that makes me love the Zoom is having control via bluetooth through the iPad app. It was through watching your reviews that convinced me to purchase the Zoom F8n and helped me to figure out how to use it as well as the handy app for my ipad. My experience with the Zoom has been just great. It truly is a product that we need and that I would also recommend to others. Thank you for your excellent reviews and online training classes!

[@curtisjudd]

I don't have any inside information. I hope it will be replaced. I really like the F8n.

[@wilswilcox]

@@curtisjudd I was having an issue connecting to bluetooth on my new iPad Mini 6 so I called Zoom tech support. The solution is you just go to System > Bluteooth, and if it says iOS 9-12 just toggle it over to iOS 13. That worked like a charm. So then I asked if there would be a successor to the F8n, and he told me to watch the website and that within the next several weeks a new flagship product will be announced. Woo-hoo!

[@curtisjudd]

@@wilswilcox Exciting!

[@EposVox]

Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@CastFromTheHip]

Another great review!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@stephenmolloy4244]

Hi Curtis. I am enjoying your channel. Very informative! Here's a simple question. You addressed folks who already have an F8 and whether or not they should upgrade. I am planning on buying either a F8 or a F8N. I am just wondering if you think it's definitely worth the extra cost to get the F8N? My budget is tight you see. A relatable problem I'm sure! Any help would be appreciated. Thank you again!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Stephen, We covered the differences so if the hardware changes in the F8n are not critical for your work, then definitely save yourself some money. Note that the original F8 has been discontinued and it looks like most places sell it for only $50 less than the F8n. But if you can find it for less, it is still very good value. Best wishes!

[@jaynailerz7304]

Sounds like a fan going off in the background with auto mix on and when it’s off no fan noise. I’m listening with high quality headphones

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@hbl_channel]

Hello Curtis. I need your professional advise. I currently have the zoom H6 and several H1n. I want to upgrade to a more professional recorder. I saw your review on the Zoom F6 too. Am not sure which one to get. I do corporate Interviews, talking heads, corporate events and some music cover music videos. I use Ninja V as well and I want to utilize the external timecode functionality of the Atomos Ninja V. The recorder will be paired with the Rode NTG 5. My question is, which of the Zooms will I get? Should I wait for a better F8 or F6 upgrade or look for other brands like sound device Mix Pre series? Thanks in advance.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Homer, the Zoom F series and MixPre II series are my favorites. If I could only choose one I’d go with a MixPre. But you can make great recordings with any of those. I’m not expecting a refresh of the F8n any time soon but you never know.

[@hbl_channel]

Curtis Judd Thanks Curtis. Will update you as soon As I made the purchase.

[@skakdosmer]

The hybrid limiters raise the noise floor by 10db? That sounds like a lot! So I just wonder if it wouldn't be preferable to just turn down the gain a little. Or to use a safety track in cases where you REALLY fear it might suddenly get VERY loud. Probably it's just my inexperience, but I have a sneaky feeling those limiters might not be terribly necessary.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Lau, yes, limiters are not necessary in every situation, particularly for narrative, interview, and similar situations where things are likely not going to change too much in volume. For these situations, any good engineer/mixer should just set their gain with enough headroom to handle the modulation. 10dB sounds like a lot, but in light of the very low self noise preamps, I don't think the additional noise is as bad as it initially sounds. In most cases, it will still sit below the ambient noise floor and be "invisible" to the audience.

[@NorthlandDWJ]

@Curtis Judd do you think an XLR booster would make any difference with use of the f8n for cleaner gain? Or almost no difference since its already got almost as good as gain you are going to get? For example with use of a shotgun mic like the ntg4 +. I noticed there is cleaner sound with use on the tascam dr70 with the Triton Audio Fethead

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, the F8n is in a higher league and shouldn’t need any of the preamps like the FEThead. Plenty of clean gain on the F8n for the NTG4+.

[@genjii931]

With all the improvements in the F8n, I'm thinking the balance tips in its favor over the MixPre-10T because of the F-Control. The price difference doesn't hurt, either. The F8n WITH F-Control is $1350, and the MixPre-10T is $1,800.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Starry. Evidently SD just announced a firmware update that adds control surface compatibility. Will be interesting to see how that works. In terms of price, I'm pretty sure Zoom will always have the advantage there.

[@pradeepchakraverti]

@@curtisjudd if that bit of news from SD is true then it's good news! The only reason why I've held back from looking at the Mixpre 10T is its form factor. It is hard to think of it as a bag recorder. And it's pretty much useless on a table either without an external level control interface and with all inputs running. Just my two cents.

[@curtisjudd]

@@pradeepchakraverti It is true. They implemented it to work with a handful of third party MIDI controllers rather than make their own.

[@pradeepchakraverti]

@@curtisjudd thanks. I hope that you'll do a video on that sometime! It'll help me to make a Mixpre 10T Vs F-8n choice in the future. Just as your videos have helped me in the past! I do own a Mixpre 6 already. 😊

[@curtisjudd]

@@pradeepchakraverti Me too! 👍🎤

[@Nacho.100]

Hello Curtis, I have a question for you. Did you ever have the opportunity to test the sound difference between a 633 and a 7XX series?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Nacho, I used the 744T on one project but never had the opportunity to compare it side by side with the 633.

[@Nacho.100]

Thanks!

[@jmb53rr]

Thank you for the review Curtis, I may have missed it in the video, but is the ability to monitor camera returns readily available? When working shoots and connected to the camera via a breakaway cable, I always check and periodically monitor the camera return. I realize this workflow is becoming less and less a standard, but Sound Devices seems to have carried this feature forward even with the Mix Pre 6. Thank you again!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Jim, unfortunately, the F8 and F8n do not have a dedicated camera return input. You would have to use one of the 8 inputs to rig a return. Interestingly, the F4 does have a 3.5mm camera return input. Not sure why Zoom didn't add that to the F8n.

[@jmb53rr]

@@curtisjudd Thank you for your reply Curtis. Keep up the good work!

[@reyajerryaharris4539]

Hi, can you send link to where you purchased your wireless time code jam syncs?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Reya, yes, the Tentacle Sync E timecode generators: B&H, Amazon geni.us/GAB56B Full Disclosure: This link is an affiliate link. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

[@t.p.s.musicacademy9301]

Excellent excellent review video -

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for watching!

[@t.p.s.musicacademy9301]

@@curtisjudd Your review put me over the top on getting this model - Jarret

[@kimgary8081]

Hi Judd , Is this F8n very good for special Sound Effects on the field and for Music recording other then Video capturing ? Thank You .. Cheers

[@curtisjudd]

Hello Kim, yes, good for field sound effects. Also fine for live music recording.

[@kimgary8081]

Thank you so much for kind help and fast response .. Cheers

[@00MondoMedia]

Does the F8n hardware fix the known shielding issue of the original F8? Times I've been recording in downtown Toronto near TV and radio buildings, my F8 will pick up a noise, freq, or FM signal that a 633 or 664 would not pick up.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Adrian, I haven’t experienced the RF interference problem with the F8 or F8n so I’m not sure. As far as I’m aware, they did not add any additional RF shielding to the F8n.

[@ashkan095]

Can you compare Zoom F8n vs LiveTrak L‑12 vs Mixpre 6 for using for film if you're working from a table.

[@ashkan095]

Also Zoom R24

[@curtisjudd]

Here's a discussion of the Zoom vs. MixPre from a while back (though some things have changed including the addition of AutoMix on the F8 and control surface support for the MixPre): kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJLHdoCtlqiBe7s I'm more of a sound for film guy so I haven't used the R24 or Livetrack series. I'd like to try out the livetrack at some point. Re: the F8n vs MixPre: They both produce great audio quality but have slightly different strong points and weak points. Both are fantastic. Best wishes!

[@peruperu-jj8zs]

Hi Curtis:) Do you think the headphone preamp is better? or Is it the same preamp as F8 and F4 with digital boost?

[@curtisjudd]

It is the same hardware with digital boost so it is practical with more headphones.

[@peruperu-jj8zs]

Curtis Judd thanks 🙏 that’s very disappointing

[@MrHamit64]

How does the phantum power work on the F recorders? Does it turn on in pairs like the H recorders? As for the F8N VS something like a Mix Pre 10 T yeah hard to judge as I've heard neither with a Rode NT1-A. Now 1 could try to argue the Sound Devices being pro gear argument, but even they say the Mix Pre series is nothing like their 7 series recorders. Cause I had once thought if you got a Mix Pre 10 you'd be getting a 788T but modern and oh you can also use it as an interface. Speaking of which. Did they fix on the F8N that problem of the recorder not staying in interface mode? The H6 stays and it's recommended you take it out of interface mode before unplugging it.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi MrHamit64, phantom power is controlled independently for each input channel on the F8n and F8. I haven't had issues with the F8n staying in interface mode so I'm not sure whether anything has been fixed. What is the issue exactly?

[@bornabaharloo7495]

Hello Sir . My question is : zoom F8n recorder good enough to make good quality sounding videos for streaming on KZbin and instagram? Or an 8 line sound card ? ( for drums recording ) ? And wich one of these microphones sets have better qualities for recording drums : Audix Fp7 or Akg session 1 or audio-technica Dk7 ? Tanks 🙏🏼

[@curtisjudd]

Hi borna, I don't have a lot of experience tracking drums, but the audio quality from the F8 should certainly work well. Not are on the microphones, though. I don't have first hand experience with these. Best wishes!

[@bornabaharloo7495]

@@curtisjudd Thank you so much 🙏🏼🤟🙏🏼

[@Photographicelements]

Great video!! For dual recording a safety track, does it use two channels to do so, essentially turning an 8line recorder into a 4line (like the F4)?

[@curtisjudd]

It uses two channels for each microphone so you can record a total of 4 mics in dual mode at the same time. Happy recording!

[@Photographicelements]

Curtis Judd thanks!

[@mieszko_mahboob]

Very helpful, thanks man!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@mymusicmoodsmmm8821]

Good job again! I want to do ambisonic and natures ambiances recording with either sennheiser ambeo or rode ntsf1 which recorder do you think is best suited for that between sd mixpre6 or zoom f8n? Thank you very much and keep up that awesome work!

[@curtisjudd]

Hey, thanks! I have to confess that I haven't done any ambisonic recording so I don't have a good answer for that. But I own both the F8n and MixPre-10T and love them both. When I can only choose one, I usually opt for the MixPre.

[@stewartshape8978]

Hi Chris, am I right in thinking that initial gain on each channel is set in PFL mode, then the physical turn faders are used just to send a mix to the L/R outputs etc?? so if the physical turn faders are moved DURING recording this only will effect the level of L/R etc record level not the separate channels? I am not used to working like this, would be nice if you could "live ride " each knob fader when recording to effect directly EACH CHANNEL record level rather than just L/R recorded level? s=cheers stewart shape

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Stewart, there are several different knob modes. The mode I described is how mixing boards typically work. However, if you want to change it so that the knobs control gain, you can make that change in the menu. My course covers all the details if you're interested.

[@stewartshape8978]

@@curtisjudd thanks Chris also when I press ARM record track 3 track four now also arms and vice versa I cant find how to stop that!!

[@stewartshape8978]

sorry Chris just got it in `PFL stereo link!! sorry

[@stewartshape8978]

thanks for all the great support Chris.

[@blackcatsound]

Just bought an F8n and used it for the first time yesterday to record a high school symphonic band. I also have an F6 and hoped to use them together as interfaces to my MacBook and Pro Tools, while recording on their SD cards at the same time as a backup. Problem is that my MacBook sees each device as the same: " F series audio interface with rec". So adding a second one bumps the first. It worked when I added the F6 as just an interface, and the recording went well (no crashes of PT) but I wasn't able to record a backup of the 6 mics going into the F6. Any ideas how to get around this? I have scoured the web and so far have struck out.

[@curtisjudd]

I don’t know, but I’d contact Zoom support. Best wishes!

[@blackcatsound]

@@curtisjudd Yes, waiting for a response from Zoom. At any rate, both the F6 and F8n seem to be very good devices. Your videos are great. Thanks

[@outoftruthrecords]

I want to get an F8n but Im wondering if it will be replaced soon. Do you think it would be worth the wait for a redesign with 32 bit and maybe other stuff or just get the current version?

[@curtisjudd]

If you want to record any time in the next year, I'd get the F8n. I don't know when or if there'll be an F8 redesign.

[@outoftruthrecords]

thanks curtis. also thanks so much for all the great videos. anytime someone asks me about mics or gear i just tell them to go to your channel vs me explaining it because you do it so well.

[@busyak]

Zoom! Please add 32-bit recording! Then I will be unstoppable!!!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@taylormefford]

Curtis, are the preamps in the F8n here the same as the preamps in the F4 and original F8? Or are they newer and better?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Taylor, the F8n has the same very good preamps as the F4 and F8.

[@taylormefford]

Curtis Judd Thanks for the speedy response!

[@infectedlion1000]

Hey Curtis, how are the preamps on the F8n for using dynamic mics, such as SM58 or SM57 that need lots of gain? My experience with the Zoom H6 and H4n is that the preamps are too noisy and I’m wondering if it’s the same story here.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Scott, totally different game here: The preamps on the F8n are a couple of leagues up from the Zoom Handy series of recorders (H4n, H5, H6). No problem whatsoever to gain up dynamic microphones, including the SM58, 57, the SM7b and Electrovoice RE20.

[@infectedlion1000]

Curtis Judd Thank you! I appreciate your input (pun intended) and the prompt response! I’ve learned a lot from your videos, you’ve made some great stuff and I’m looking forward to seeing more!

[@antoineholliday7631]

On the zoom F8n, for each input, there is a selectable Mic/Line level input. There is also a option for "USB 1-4". What is USB level input?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Antoine, that's for recording sound from your computer.

[@antoineholliday7631]

@@curtisjudd So with a USB to XLR, or TRS, adapter? Also, wouldn't that be a line level signal?

[@curtisjudd]

@@antoineholliday7631 If you have your F8n connected to your computer via USB and in audio interface mode, you can record any of the 4 USB outputs from the computer without any additional cables. If the sound plays on the computer, the F8n can record it via the USB cable.

[@GustavNyqvist]

Thanks for all the great reviews! Does the mini xlr-output on the F8n send the mix while the device is set up in a multi-track session? I would like to record in multi-track session on my laptop and at the same time, send the mix to a couple of speakers for an audience. The H6 does not... Im using the H6 to do podcasts. When I used it recently for a podcast in front of an audience, I noticed the output did not send while the H6 was in multi-track mode, recording on my laptop with Audition. Did not matter since we used a xlr-split in between to send the mics to a standard front of house mixing board for the audience and one split to my H6 for recording in multi-track on my laptop. But with the F8n pared with the controller, I could just use the controller for the live audience mixing and mini-xlr outputs for the speakers, if they send while in multi-track mode. Would be ideal yeah? (except for not having a equalizer option as you do on a standard front of house mix board.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Gustav, yes, the F8n has flexible routing setup for the outputs so you can send a full mix (which is the default setting), or only some of the channels pre or post fader if for some reason you needed to that. Definitely yes.

[@GustavNyqvist]

Curtis Judd that’s excellent! Thanks! Do you think there are midi controllers for the other recorder/mixer you mentioned with equalizer on each channel? With pre/post fader recording options? Would be great for audiences on site.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Gustav, I'm trying to remember the other recorder/mixer I mentioned... If it was the Sound Devices MixPre, they just added firmware that allows them to use some midi controllers as control surfaces, but I don't think that adds EQ capabilities. That is available on the higher end Sound Devices 6xx series mixer/recorders with their dedicated add-on control surface.

[@GustavNyqvist]

Curtis Judd ok :) maybe one day...

[@alexbormanbou]

Great review

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Alejandro.

[@amaobiajawara8323]

Great review I was wondering why the Zoom F8N has limited note space I kinda don't like the fact that I have to erase some good notes for some new ones when I'm working on films.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Amaobi, I don't know the answer to that since I didn't design the F8n. Perhaps Zoom support could help with that. Best wishes!

[@youssefidhammou4990]

So helpful thank you ❤️

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Youssef. 🙏

[@tshev]

It is a professional device, but can it work with a dynamic microphone? (Can you manually turn on/off the phantom power)

[@curtisjudd]

Yes

[@tshev]

@@curtisjudd thank you for the answer.

[@Jyotirmayshuva]

Could you please suggest the best headphone to use with it for field recording?

[@curtisjudd]

The best headphone? I don't know that there is a best. A common option among location mixers is the Sony MDR7506.

[@justtheotherdave]

I've seen timecode fed as an audio signal to timecode-unaware devices at the expense of using the audio input (or in the case of a camera, losing the camera audio as the timecode signal replaces the audio track). Just to confirm, the timecode generator isn't going to effect the 8 channels of the F8n? (so it can do 4 mics + 4 safety tracks + timecode, versus 3 mics + 3 safety tracks + 1 timecode signal + 1 wasted channel) Sorry if this confuses anyone. Additionally, since it raises the noise floor, is there any reason I would want to use the limiters if I'm going to be recording safety tracks? Does the advanced limiter change this decision? (e.g. are the gains / front ends for the safety tracks separate from the main tracks, or does triggering the advanced limiter affect both tracks?)

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Dave, confirmed: The timecode generator does NOT use one of the input channels. It is completely separate so you can still record 4 inputs + 4 safety tracks + timecode simultaneously. The timecode is written to the metadata of the recorded file, not as an audio track. No, no reason to use the limiters if you like the safety track workflow, i.e., there is more work in post, but you don't take on the additional 10dB in your noise floor.

[@justtheotherdave]

@@curtisjudd Awesome, thanks!

[@JonnyDurango]

If the 10dB hybrid limiter increases the noise floor by 10dB, why not just record with the mic gain @ 10dB lower and normalize as needed in post? As far as the end result is concerned, wouldn't this effectively produce the same SNR? Of course it's nice to have this as a feature, but it sounds like if you don't mind a little work in post, it could effectively be recreated with any recorder.

[@curtisjudd]

You hit the nail on the head - it is a potential time saver for post.

[@arrigalimedia]

Why would you not discuss the 10 pin add-on port? Can you use the dual XLR input adapter with this?

[@curtisjudd]

You can, yes.

[@arrigalimedia]

@@curtisjudd - thanks, Curtis! I've been trying to look everywhere for that answer. 10 inputs would be great for live performance recordings. So, that dual input would come up as a LR stereo track? I might settle on the F6 for the pricetag and internal Sony battery compartment. As a note, when reviewing shotgun mics, please review them outside. Maybe I'm not looking hard enough but it seems that almost every review is done indoors which as you know is useless. That Sanken CS3e is something else!

[@arrigalimedia]

After reading the manual, it seems that the dual xlr adapter would not work. "ZOOM mic capsules can be connected. Use any ZOOM mic capsule instead of inputs 1/2." Which means the XLR adapter would be useless. Could you confirm this?

[@ajdinzutic]

you said about an wireless timecode sync product. What is it again? i can't clearly understand it. Does it have a link for it? And how difficult is it to set it up?

[@curtisjudd]

Tentacle Sync E: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWSZiYyFhdVjeKc This demo shows the process. I hope it helps!

[@Smartphonematters]

Nice video... On an unrelated note did you see that Michael Joly shut down this September?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, that was the saddest news of September 2018. But I suppose that opens an opportunity for another person to fill that niche.

[@markthomas8018]

So I think I'll choose the Zoom F8N. I'm a bit lost with the external battery option, do I search Amazon UK for any V-mount battery please?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, any v-mount batter with a d-tap output and the cable we link in the description should do the job. Happy recording!

[@markthomas8018]

@@curtisjudd thanks. I am hesitant again, which is better this or Zoom F6?

[@curtisjudd]

@@markthomas8018 It depends on what you're doing. For general purpose and dialogue recording as a sound mixer, I prefer the F8n. What will you record? Which types of microphones?

[@markthomas8018]

@@curtisjudd corporate interviews and actor showreel scenes / short films. Currently own one radio lapel mic and Sennheiser ME66. Looking to get something like directional shotgun CMIT when can afford. If either of these mixers lose power, is the current recording lost with it? UPDATE: just spoken to a dealer and now have been persuaded to go back with Mixpre-6 again!

[@curtisjudd]

@@markthomas8018 Hahaha! I prefer the devices in this order when it comes to actually getting work done in high quality: 1) MixPre II 2) ZOOM F8n 3) ZOOM F6. I agree with the dealer on the MixPre.

[@alejandrocontent6694]

I'm grateful to your reviews .THANK You!! Maybe you can answer this. Audio has troubled me a bit. I'm currently using tascam dr100 mk ii. I've notice the pick up of noise when using HIGH . However , I am being forced to uses High from the three gain levels. The reason being because both Low and Med are too low in volume as a result. The only way I can make it work is placing it on high. This gives me little space to adjust audio. That is my experience with tascam Dr100. mk ii . In controlled environments Tascam dr100 mk ii works well in my experiences. I would like to proceed with something for short films , commercials ; usable in Run and Gun environments. $800 Budget . SIMPLE MENUS IS A PLUS.What do you recommend ? For someone that

[@curtisjudd]

Depends on how many inputs you need? The Zoom F4 and MixPre-3 are both very good.

[@alejandrocontent6694]

@@curtisjudd I would likely use 3 inputs max. Getting time code would be nice but not sure how that would work with black magic production 4k with bnc cable.

[@curtisjudd]

MixPre-3 or Zoom F4 are both good options. The F4 has a timecode generator which should work great with the BMD camera (BMD generally does a good job with timecode, at least in my experience with the Ursa Mini Pro). Here's my Zoom F4 review if you're interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZTInJ-woJhjf9E

[@alejandrocontent6694]

Thank you.

[@APPLE10000009]

Can you compare zoom f8n and mixpre 6 ,which better?which you suggest to buy?

[@curtisjudd]

They are both good but for different reasons: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJLHdoCtlqiBe7s

[@doublevisionmedialiaisons2235]

Originally the F4 could power the F control yet the F8 could not power the F control from the connecting wire (USB I believe). Has this changed on the F8n? Can it power the F control? I use a separate brick battery through the hirose cable as well so if the F8 control can be powered by that and not it’s own power source that’s one less battery and cable to worry about.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, the F8n can power the F-control via the USB cable between the two. Much more convenient to use one battery for both.

[@marcorossi2182]

I use Genelec 8010 monitor speakers on main output of Zoom f8n recorder/interface connected with oroginal Zoom TXF-8 cables. The F8n generate an incredibly high noise on "Line" level output (+4dBu) and I can only use it on "Normal" consumer level (-10dBV) and it still produce unpleasant noise on the monitors (even if much less compared to line level). The issue happens both in audio interface and "standard" recorder mode; it doe not depend on faders or other channels. I have done plenty of tests but no: as soon the F8n is powered on (both with power supply or battery) it spits out a huge amount of noise to the main out. How comes such a bad output stage?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Marco, I didn't seem to run into this same issue. Any word from ZOOM support? were you able to test with other cables?

[@marcorossi2182]

@@curtisjudd I will probably get an answer next week.

[@marcorossi2182]

@@curtisjudd I have managed to record the noise directly out from main output so I am sure the issue is the F8n unit. I will claim for warranty. I will check with the dealer next week.Thanks for support :-)

[@przybylskipawel]

Hi Curtis! Does F8/F8n allow overdubbing?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Pawel, on its own, no. But when you use it as an audio interface to a computer with a digital audio workstation app, yes. that is one area where the MixPre series is different. They have a plugin where the MixPre can overdub record on its own, without a computer.

[@przybylskipawel]

@@curtisjudd THX for advise. I own F8, so my bad. I guess Zoom don't want F8 to compete with their Livetrak lineup.

[@curtisjudd]

@@przybylskipawel Possibly they were trying to avoid competition. Originally, the F series was designed as a purpose-built product for production sound for film.

[@thelittleveganco.7331]

What audio device do you recommend for someone who wanted to create live and acoustic music videos using a Cannon t7i as the camera?

[@curtisjudd]

The Zoom F8n would be a pretty good choice.

[@stuckathome6987]

The video below was recorded with the F8n. One of the best live recordings I’ve ever heard! kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJStiJJ-qp1kmqM kzbin.info/www/bejne/p2WVaaZpq7xnZ5I

[@POLARICED]

Has the battery consumption improve when you have the lcd on output mode on and 100% brightness?

[@curtisjudd]

You mean when you turn the brightness down? Yes, very slightly.

[@POLARICED]

I see, well as you said in the video it's best to have a second, more powerful and reliable power source connected

[@ViniAndradeMusic]

Can I use a balanced microphone XLR cable? Does these imputs support balanced cables?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, absolutely!

[@NathanielBlank]

There is a very slight hiss at the end of your dialogue. I'm listening through my Bose sound system which is able to pickup more sensitive sounds.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for pointing that out

[@CineFan911]

Hey Curtis, your lighting setups always look amazing however your graphics are really lacking. I think it's time you consider having a motion designer put an intro together for you. Your current one just sort of looks like something I made with iMovie back when I was a freshman in film school. I think because your content is really good (and looks fantastic) it deserves some sleek graphics. Keep up the good work btw.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Kevin. I agree. I need a graphic designer who knows how to do motion graphics. I have a guy that does the thumbnails which has improved things dramatically. Now I need someone I can afford to pay for motion graphics. Any suggestions?

[@longshot4484]

@@curtisjudd hi Curtis their few people I know if your still in such I can hook you up, they are really good and affordable.

[@curtisjudd]

@@longshot4484 We updated since we shot this. But I am still looking for a graphic designer to create a logo for the brand. If you wouldn't mind contacting me via email, I would appreciate it. You can reach me by going to the about tab on my channel. Thanks!

[@protoman247]

all done with finals. time to relax with some audio vids on youtube :D

[@curtisjudd]

congrats on finishing the semester/quarter!

[@protoman247]

@@curtisjudd thanks. Congrats on the 100k subscribers Curtis :D

[@colehughes]

I’m looking into the f8n because I’m needing a device with AutoMix feature. The Zoom f8n price range is what I’m hoping to spend to get good AutoMix feature. I know you can spend $3K to get better AutoMix but is the f8n AutoMix still worth using? I know Curtis mentioned the potential of future firmware updates to improve the AutoMix if this device. Has anybody witnessed this to be the case since the time of this video post?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Cole, I haven't seen any updates to the firmware or AutoMix on the F8n. However, since I shot this video, I can say that AutoMix makes a bigger difference with 3+ simultaneous microphones. In the sample here we only had 2 and it helped a little. As long as one has realistic expectations, I think this is still a very good buy.

[@colehughes]

Curtis Judd thank you Curtis. I think that does help my decision of buying. Thank you for sharing on here.

[@graphguy]

For my needs, I would never buy one. HOWEVER, I greatly appreciate your presentation as I see it as learning experience to broaden my understanding on the subject, for that... thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

👍🏻

[@josephthrower2839]

Can you recommend an external battery for an H4n, or H6? Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Joseph, just about any USB battery bank will do. I've been using the Anker Powercore+: geni.us/MYLbA

[@Sembianb]

@curtis will f8n can be used with Octava mk012 into bmpcc 6k

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, most certainly.

[@printuprince]

Can u recommend an external battery for f8n

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, any v-mount battery or other cine battery with a d-tap output should work. Then you'll also need a d-tap to hirose cable. Both are linked in the description of the video.

[@Bothmanns_pickups]

Do you know if there comes a F4n?

[@curtisjudd]

I haven't heard any confirmation, but I imagine we'll eventually get an F4.

[@RaySweeting]

If you were to get just one would it be the F8n or the equivalent Sound Device?

[@curtisjudd]

It depends on the types of jobs. For me, personally, I'd probably go with the MixPre-10T because of the type of work I generally do. But for others, the F8n makes more sense if they're needing a mixing control surface for desk jobs, for example.

[@RaySweeting]

Woops should have watched the end before posting

[@curtisjudd]

Haha! No worries. It is a burning question that comes to mind for most people.

[@melekanre]

Hi Curtis, thanks to you, I have the zoom f4 recorder and I love it, thaaanks!. Now I need a versatile microphone with less than 500$ for my home studio and for independent films. Please please please help me. ntg 4? ntg 2? sennheiser mkh600? ..or some other?

[@curtisjudd]

Consider the Deity S-Mic 2: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rmXXgYJmfJ2VaLs

[@MrHamit64]

Verry Verry cool dude. I for my birthday bought myself an H6. I had thought of getting the H5 first as that's according to the most popular items list for my Audio-Technica AT-8022 mic the most popular recorder to use with it. But I do wana do full 5.1 at some point so meh I said may as well. Once and done. Now at some point I need to get the snapp off part with the 2 add on XLRs. I do wander what the Zoom snap off mikes would sound like on these F recorders.

[@curtisjudd]

Hey, congrats on the new recorder! Happy recording! I haven't used the add-on units with the F-series, haven't had a need for the additional inputs yet...

[@pierluigidinardodimaio3708]

I have read that it is not possible to connect external preamps. it is true ?

[@curtisjudd]

If you use one of the inputs set to line level, it is possible.

[@tocadomorro]

nice. thanks

[@curtisjudd]

👍🏻

[@Hexspa]

On sale @ bnh for $800 for the next 8 hours

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@leelove7126]

Just finished using a Mixpre 6 on a job for the first time and I was expecting to fall in love and want to buy one. But instead I found the Mixpre to be annoying and not very intuitive. This is why I am looking at Curtis's review of the F8n to see if it was more useful. Mixpre Issues First the mixpre sounds great and no issues there. But where I found it lacking was in requiring me to use the headphone knob as a shuttle knob. Not sure if this is common on other recorders but I could not find a way to Pause the recording. It requires me to stop, which creates another file. Also, maybe this is user error but the knobs only control the two channel mix, not adjust the individual channel gain. To do this you have push the channel know, select gain, the click, click, click on the screen to make a channel gain adjustment. SD Card Access The other really annoying issue on the Mixpre that I am surprised Curtis didn't mention is it is almost impossible to remove the SD card with a battery sled installed. I would love to get my hands on a Zoom f8n, because other than what appears to be a more power hungry recorder, the F8n looks like an easier recorder than the Mixpre.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Lee, The F8n, in my opinion, has a different set of quirks than the MixPre. The channel knobs are tiny and nigh impossible to distinguish from one another on a dark set. The menus are quirkier in my opinion on the F8n and take longer to navigate even when. you are familiar with them vs. the touch screen of the MixPre. The menu knob is easier to use on the F8n since it is on the front panel and easily accessible. The MixPre does in fact require you to go into the channel menu in advanced mode. I agree that the headphone knob is poorly placed for bag use. It is my main complaint about the MixPre. I did not personally find the buried SD card to be an issue because I only need to remove it at the end of a shoot. I don't know whether you were using a MixPre-6 II but the II series writes to a USB Drive on the side which makes that even less of an issue. In short, they both have quirks and which quirks you prefer are personal preference.

[@leelove7126]

@@curtisjudd First thank you for taking the time to reply and for your excellent reviews. And I know you tend to lean towards to the Sound Devices which is understandable, especially on the 633. Working with real pro gear certainly spoils us. :) I needed to use the Advanced mode on this shoot (and might be wrong on this) because I needed individual tracks, hdmi time code input and one other feature I can't remember right now but thought the manual said I had to be in Advanced mode. I was able to record all day on one card so I was lucky but if I filled up a card and needed to change it on set, that would be a major pain. But every evening I was able go into the file transfer mode on the Mixpre and copy the files that way. I admit, I do like the knobs and the lighted rings on the mixpre that change color with audio levels, or when solo or muted. That is very nice and easy to see what is going on. From all of the praise about the Sound Devices gear, I think I had high expectations on this recorder. So when I found things I thought would be obvious so difficult, it threw me. Example: Shuttle Audio, I expected to be able to hold down the Play button to fast forward, or at least dedicated rewind / forward buttons. I had to download the manual only to discover the headphone know was the control to use. REALLY, what bonehead engineer came up with that bright Idea. I know there is limited real estate on the front panel, but this was something I would expect from a chinese knock off produce of some kind, not from Sound Design. Anyway, not trying to rag on the mixpre and yes you have listed some good points. But when a product like the F8n has dual card slots and the Mixpre is buried behind a battery plate that requires an allen wrench, I thought you would have mentioned this a strike against the SD. Thanks again for ALL of your hardwork. I know how much goes into doing a review and it is very time-consuming. But you have become the go-to guy for audio-related information for myself and my friends.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Lee. Yes, advanced mode definitely required for iso tracks. Agreed again on the headphone/menu knob. I don’t need to use an Allen wrench to get to the SD card on the MixPre. Did I misunderstand your comment on that?

[@curtisjudd]

Also, you may very well prefer the F8n. I definitely agree that different people have different preferences. My reviews are biased as are all reviews as we each have things we prefer and that annoy us. Your points are all valid. The Allen wrench to get to the SD card is the only thing I didn’t understand.

[@leelove7126]

@@curtisjudd I might have gotten this wrong, I thought I read in the manual where there was a wrench attached that you could use to remove the plate. But I have not attempted this so I might be wrong about how to remove the plate. All I know is I looked all over the recorder looking for the card and had to go to the manual to discover it was hidden. Again, something I thought would be so obvious, was unnecessarily complicated. :)