Zoom Q8N First Impressions | Q8N vs Q8 | 2022

Zoom Q8N: amzn.to/3uJnPSP
Zoom Q8: amzn.to/3JunJTj
Zoom F1: amzn.to/3IHQmgb
Zoom H5: amzn.to/2ONcqLy
00:00 - Overview
07:24 - Q8N vs Q8
11:52 - Mic Comparison
14:52 - Lens Cap + Hood
16:35 - Q8N Menu
20:54 - Test Footage
Zoom Q8N Webcam Audio & Video Test: • Zoom Q8N Webcam Audio ...
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DISCLAIMERS: Some of my links have an affiliate code, allowing me to make a small commission at no additional cost to you. It helps my channel if you buy from those links.
The opinions expressed in this video were not influenced by or paid for by any outside individual or company. I only use and test products I buy myself with my own money unless otherwise noted.

[@ebentechstudio]

1. does Zoom Q8Nscreen goes off when you connect hdmi to its micro hdmi output into a capture card for live streaming? 2. does Zoom Q8N have a clean hdmi output when connected from the micro hdmi to a capture card for live streaming?

[@VideoGizmology]

I didn't know the answer to your questions, so I just did a test myself. I used a CamLink 4K and here is what I discovered: 1. the screen on the Q8N stays on while you livestream using a capture card into your computer. 2. There is a clean HDMI output as long as you turn off the displays which is a button on the Q8N. However, I ran into two problems. One issue is that the HDMI output was only 720p/30fps. Even when I was recording at 4K, I didn't see an option to change the output to 4K or even 1080p. The second issue is that I lost the audio on the internal mic capsules when using the capture card into the computer. The audio was recording on the device itself, it just wasn't transferring that audio through the HDMI output. There are a number of factors here that I might want to look into in a future video, such as firmware updates, HDMI cables, other HDMI recorders like an Atomos Ninja, and XLR audio connections via capture card, but these are the results of my very quick tests.

[@ebentechstudio]

@@VideoGizmology I really appreciate 🙏 ❤

[@tossedpenny]

I have the regular Q8 and was possibly interested in upgrading to the N, but after watching your review I think I actually like the regular Q8 a little better. The N definitely has a few more bells and whistles, but given both cameras less than fantastic video quality, I don't think there's enough difference between the two to really make a difference in the end. I know my little Q8 isn't a Ferrari but it does a pretty good job of sharing my guitar videos with good audio and captures all the band sessions with ease. I think the biggest plus on these is their user friendly ease of use. Never even cracked the manual open and was up and running with the first push of the power button.

[@music0326]

Is the video quality better in low light than previous zoom models?

[@CharNewc]

I bought a Q8n-4k to record videos for my drumming. I was very disappointed with the quality of the video. It is grainy at 4k 30 fps. I communicated with the staff at Zoom, sent them a sample video and they agreed that that was the video quality. I tried the brightness setting and added more light, but it was still grainy. All the other features were great! Love the XLR hookups and the sound was spot-on. However, the video quality is a deal breaker and I'm regretfully sending it back for a refund. they either need to stick to sound or step up and get better video. I also found it ironic that the companies name is Zoom and the camera doesn't have Zoom.

[@VideoGizmology]

Yeah, video quality isn't great. Especially when iPhone and Android phones are vastly superior in quality.

[@elsongs]

@@VideoGizmology Bummer to hear that. Was considering the Q8 a while back but was turned off by the video quality.

[@theohartman487]

Maybe its possible to connect a iPhone with the ZoomQ8 together. iPhone for view and Zoom for audio. Problem might be that iPhone can’t record a long concert?!

[@Gerry926]

The original Q8hd is still my main recording device for recording my practice sessions. The swivel screen is important, since I'm not always at the same height as the camera but still need to see what's happening. The playback is nice and clear, as long as there is enough light. Perfect for quick, easy recording. Just don't try to make it do what it's not made for. It's clearly for musicians. The sound quality is actually cleaner than when I go through an expensive bass preamp or di. I'm looking to pick up another one as a spare. Not feeling the new one.

[@42lanterns]

This was excellent. Very informative and direct. Thank you very much!

[@VideoGizmology]

Glad it was helpful!

[@FalloutUrMum]

I love the zoom h5, I didn't know they made cameras

[@EstudioT.A]

Thanks for the review, I have the Q8 and after watch the video I like much more the Q8 in the construction and disposition of the XLR inputs, LCD, etc...I cannot understand the bad design of the new Q8n 4K, where are the advisers of this company?

[@reread2549]

Thank you for the video and the detailed review and demonstration. I’ve owned many zoom products such as the R-8 And many of them not all use that cheap plastic. They do sound quite well and I think that’s where the company excels, but as far as these cameras. They just don’t look great at all. They remind me of WebCams. Now on the new model the color saturation is much better, but I would rather spend a little bit more and get a better quality lens etc, Thanks again for the video

[@VJFranzK]

they are webcam lenses. Why can't they do better? We'd buy it.

[@adamtahirpianist]

Thanks for the amazing review. I think you covered everything. Which is very good of you as you answered so many questions I had. I was wondering if you or anyone reading this would know, how large is the file size of a 45 minute 720p 30 FPS video using all microphones including the XLR on this camera Q8n? I have a music diploma exam coming up and they have told me the file size for the recording cannot exceed 1GB... and do you also know if the recording will be just one file with all four microphones and video? Thanks so much in advance

[@BushMasterThermal]

Q8N-4k has more Noise and darker image during low light video shooting, so expect more noise for concerts and low light recording events etc

[@threeonamatchventura]

I just wanted to add in here. Why would musicians be excited about XLR inputs on a camera? Because now, my collection of microphones can be used . The synergy of of connections because now my studio with mixing board, can have 12 different microphones at once . Different eq and effects and room positioning ,can be sent directly to a camera where audio and video are automatically synced . This saves an editing procedure I have NO interest in. If careful I can simply snip off a beginning and ending of a video I might flub and keep the middle without editing at all. Love it . Onboard reverb should be enough for most musicians to be interested in the camera. It has a tiny spring reverb tank, no , just seeing if you read this far. How to easily keep an interesting social media presence doing what we love ? This is it. Great at gigs.

[@JohnKenneymusic]

Good review I like the upgrade its good for musicians not an action cam but Its seems if you try to find a camcorder with these future it over 2000 US so I think this is well worth it for the price for a musician that is just doing home recording in a fast easy way. Thanks for the great review insight on this product.

[@tuneman59]

He also didn't show the the module that allows for two more XLR inputs making it capable of 4 track recording though I think he mentioned it. He also overlooked that the Q8 has those inputs in the end and not the side which would allow for more room for a TRS cable. I do think that the module I mentioned in the beginning has the same inputs as the Q8. I would run it into a mixer or an amp with a balanced out, or a direct box. I agree with this review on some points there's a lot of room for improvement but a lot of people seem to think this is a regular camcorder and its not. No optical zoom and no stabilization kill that right out of the gate! It doesn't have the functions of my 25-30 yr. old Sony Handycam which I have been shooting my music videos with for many years until it started giving me issues. But the Sony doesn't allow you to go straight from the mixer, and the Zoom does which is good for me, due to external noises when I record. I.e.: heater, humidifier, cat, dog, etc... I researched for a long painful time trying to find a camcorder that would replace my Sony. In order to have XLR input you will pay out the nose and the options are very limited. Every other camcorder that I looked at that would record audio and do it well was 2-3 times what this Zoom costs and you're recording with a regular camcorder mic. I have 11 days to decide whether or not to keep this recorder. One minute I think its pretty cool, it sits on a tripod and records me and my acoustic guitar, sometimes accompaniment and that's it. The only thing I'm really struggling with right now is adjusting my audio levels but I think that's me and not the recorder. Then I read all these bad reviews about horrible video and i think to myself video is also an important factor tor me. The Sony recorded audio and video very, very well but it was well over $1500 back then. I haven't tried all the settings on the Zoom to any extent but I have been shooting in 1080 and I don't use the wide view. I also use night mode in my studio with all the lights on and it's not perfect but its not horrible either. This review says use auto, i personally don't think that's a good option because it will keep trying to auto correct which is going to make the video worse! I did try 4k initially but I was in my living room when i first opened the box and the lighting was not that good. I didn't like it and thought boy , why the hell did i buy this? Then I took it out in my studio and played with the settings until the video looked acceptable. So, it seems to record very well through the mic and the XLR inputs. I did detect a very slight warble in the audio during playback and I am working with Zoom to try and get to the bottom of it. Its hard to detect and catch it so we'll see. It may not even be the recorder, i don't know for sure. If I cant get to the bottom of it or they don't offer me a replacement i may return it. i know this is long winded and I apologize but for all the nay Sayers, this is a tool like any other, Typically, you don't buy something and use it for something it wasn't intended for . Its not a regular camcorder and its not a go-pro. My advise for what its worth if you're curious, is to do what I did. I bought it from Amazon. If its good and you like it, great! If you don't returning it is a no hassle piece of cake! I put it off for a long time because of all the reviews. These six people say its the biggest piece of crap on the planet while these other six people say it's fantastic and they can't believe they didn't buy it sooner! Its all subjective. Take the reviews with a grain of salt and see for yourself.

[@bradleystereoguitaramplifi9616]

Love it!❤️🎸

[@eltont862]

Great video, very thorough comparison.

[@IMSTRONG0909]

Excellent review! Would you recommend me an alternative for these 2 Zoom products?

[@VideoGizmology]

Unfortunately, there is no direct alternative for these Zoom cameras. No other manufacturer has made a camera like this. The best you can do is get a Zoom F3 or another Zoom H4 Essential and pair it with a GoPro 12 or Osmo Action 4 camera.

[@rogervmantovani]

Thanks for the video. My interest is to use it as a webcam to stream on zoom playing an electric and acoustic violin so if you can make more reviews about the Q8N I appreciate it. Thks

[@VideoGizmology]

Sure.

[@VideoGizmology]

Okay, I made a webcam test: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qn3ahX6af81qiaM

[@BudinVegas]

I have the Q8 and like it very much. I was thinking about the upgrade to the Q8n, but I do not want to use the micro SD card. I only like the regular SD card so the Q8n is a no-go for me. That was the deal breaker for me. Otherwise I think the Q8n seems to be really good. I've got several SD cards so no way getting into the micro cards. I use the Q8 all the time and it has held up very well. I'm sure the Q8n is great but the micro card sucks for me. Thanks for reading this.

[@BobIGomez]

I am still using the Q3HD. Better video quality on this, however my internet is so slow it would take forever to upload more than a few minutes of video at 4k. The Q3 included some software that was helpful. Too bad support for that is long gone as it is with most cameras as far as I know. Anyhow I will check out the 8n streaming video. It would be nice to know if the Q8n has superior sound quality using a line in, when compared to other camcorders/dslr with a line in function.✌

[@millstap]

I bought this camera a week ago to do KZbin videos of loud vintage Fender Tweed amplifiers and some guitar tutorials using the mic capsule plus two external mics. I was making a few test runs and noticed this loud rumble coming out of the included XY mic capsule channel. Just sitting there in an absolutely quiet room (soundproofed), I can hear this very deep rumble coming out of channel 1 that is totally unacceptable. With good headphones, it will shake your ears. It is sporadic but it happens every few seconds or so and will even clip the meter to red on occasions. Customer support asked me to send a video clip. After I sent a few, I never heard from them because, of course, it was late Friday afternoon and they all went home. Now I'm stuck with a faulty product that I wish I would have never bought. I'm sure I can return it but it would have been great if it worked correctly. This is my first experience with Zoom and probably my last.

[@rfilianogmailcom]

ZOOM market is audio processing. They are very good at it. I think they make video cameras just to fill up the void.

[@JoeBaermann]

I assume you got the gain level set properly, but how far did you place it from the speakers? Just thinking that they should be as far away as room mics and none of them pointing directly at a speaker. It might just be a bad unit though, seen a few live clips with loud band where there wasn’t any issue using it’s mics. Had issues with a Zoom UAC-8, first unit randomly adjusted channel gains, after RMA and repair it still had the issue, so they ended up sending me a new unit which has been working flawless since. Also had a Zoom R24 which a friend uses now, never had any issues. Ran into 1-2 digital units from other companies in the past, but luckely there is warranty covering new units that are borked upon arrival.

[@daedalusjones4228]

Good point about the lens cap.

[@richardjehl1455]

I'll buy such a camcorder with XLRs as soon as 32 bits is used for the audio...

[@christiandelmar8589]

could you send me the q8

[@JulianoMolteni]

thanks for this video. i think that the q8n is a (little) upgrading from q8 normal. but q8 normal is 220 euros, q8n 390 euro...so it is reallt convenient upgrade with 78% much than the normal price? thanks

[@VideoGizmology]

It depends on if you want the better picture quality from the Q8N. It's 4K, while the Q8 is only 2K. I notice a quality difference, but maybe you won't. The audio features are fairly similar, though, so if you just use audio only, save money and get the Q8.

[@philipliethen519]

Was hyped by videos such as this & bought one. Comments are true: audio is great, but video quality is poor.

[@Nadayana]

hey thanks. is there a recording time limit for each of them?

[@AnthonyCarrier]

I can watch the recording on the LCD monitor but can I watch it or monitor from my P.C. while recording...

[@patrickthomasanthonyhoward5256]

Are the batteries compatible on the Q8 and Q8n ?

[@VideoGizmology]

Yes, both cameras use the same battery

[@NightNDay2.0]

Wow guys zoom is about sound not video Look at his table all zoom mic plus recording why because he likes the sound quality of zoom product Once again zoom is about sound not video. the video recording is a simple addition to your recording system The Q8n is an amazing tool to have you can also use it as a stand alone recording device if you don't want to buy a recorder right away!

[@JesusPiano]

Hi, when I record my videos which usually are 2 hours in length, later when transferring the different files from the SD Card to the PC, all the files are transfered separately. It's there anything I can do so that all the files are uploaded to the PC as just one single video/file being and of course in the right order? I always (at least for the time being) record only as MOV with no audio recorded separately but included in the MOV recording If there is not a simple solution, can you at least provide some sort of alternative or explain how to? Thanks very much in advance

[@judobreakdowns7616]

I have a q8 so I appreciate this video. My Q8 screen definitely doesn't do what you showed (the wiggling or the washed out screen) but I can see how that ruins the point of using the Q8. For the TRS or lacktherof on the Q8n would it have to do with the electronics and physically fitting that connection width-wise? Whereas with the Q8, there's plenty of length to accommodate the TRS connection. Personally speaking, I'm foregoing the upgrade (unless my Q8 breaks) as I really don't value the better resolution and I do value the TRS connection. Enjoyed the thorough video!

[@VideoGizmology]

Thank you for letting me know I probably have a defective Q8. It's been bugging me. And yes, your observation of the Q8N not having a TRS because of the XLR placement on the side sounds like it's a reason why there is no TRS. But I think not having TRS on the Q8N was a mistake.

[@judobreakdowns7616]

@@VideoGizmology I agree, I think the TRS is a deal breaker for some. Although I don't remember if you mentioned it but there is a zoom capsule you can plug in at the top (EXH-6) that you could plug in for TRS connections. Extra cost but overall not the worst cost for the extra inputs.

[@VideoGizmology]

Yeah, I mentioned the Zoom capsule, but since the Q8N was designed for musicians, a TRS connection can be very important depending on your instrument.

[@tossedpenny]

There's several companies that make TRS to XLR adapters. You can pick them up for several bucks.

[@JoeBaermann]

@@VideoGizmology The last 3 amp modellers I used come with XLR, I wouldn’t buy one without, same goes for DI boxes and bass amps. Only my synths have TS (not even TRS), but there are adapters as TS/TRS to XLR cables available, so not an issue connecting keyboards and mixers either. There is also the option to resolder som plugs and cables, guess most musicians have spares floating around.

[@uniquebeatsboutique]

My q8 has the same wiggle. I might have not been so gentle with it. Surely not rugged.

[@TheBassman0327]

because running an Instrument straight thru doesnt sound good its setup to use a DI or connect it to a mixer using the xlr inputs 1 and 2

[@VideoGizmology]

I agree you can use a DI with XLR, but there are still some situations where a TRS would be useful, depending on your instrument and recording situation. Maybe not for your use, but I find TRS useful. For example, if I'm playing an acoustic electric guitar, I would plug my guitar cable directly into the TRS and then place an XLR mic or the onboard X/Y by the strings for a dynamic live mix.

[@JTroskaTV]

The mixer in my rehearsal space has RCA or 1/4” outs, not XLR. So a TRS input would’ve been handy for getting a direct feed from that. Still seems like an iPhone can get a better image anyway. Probably the best method is still to use an audio recorder to get the direct mixer feed, an iPhone or some other camera to get the video, and sync them in Final Cut or whatever. It’s a bit of a P.I.T.A. But the the lack of TRS and better image quality isn’t pushing me to buy Q8n

[@VideoGizmology]

Agreed. The Q8N is a device to consider if you don't have another audio recorder, because you are right, if you just use an audio recorder and your smart phone, you'll get better image quality and equal sound quality. However, if you want the convenience of having it all in one device and you don't mind the compromises, then the Q8 or Q8N would be something I'd recommend. I haven't reviewed the USB streaming quality yet, so that might be an interesting feature that you can't get in one device for this price yet.

[@prabhuja7554]

What do you feel with zoom F1 with XLR module attachment from zoom as a podcast reorder.?not zoom f3 iam talking about

[@VideoGizmology]

For a 1 or 2 person podcast, an F1 with XLR module should be fine to use. It wouldn't be my first choice, but if that's all you have, then it can work. Zoom makes products specifically for Podcasting such as the PodTrak P4, so there are more suitable options out there.

[@robertclary8774]

I have the XYH-5 it may feel better but doesn't isolate from the body at all. There is no difference on on the Q8 than the one that comes with it.

[@HedgehogY2K]

Wait what? You can use that as a webcam? Via USB? That sounds, incredibly convenient. Who needs a webcam that hangs on your monitor and then get a separate camcorder for very separate yet fundamentally the same goals, recording footage of people playing music or Markiplying their mouths all over their streams. He does like to ramble, that's why he has only the deepest RODE he could possibly find just to imitate that MeatCanyon video of Milkiplier.

[@IWUJazzAlum]

Thanks for this review. Doesn’t look like you can thread any filter on the lens. Or are the threads on the hood and you have to put that on first?

[@VideoGizmology]

no, there are no lens threads :(

[@armandofernal2953]

PLEASE tell us if the Q8n also slices up longer videos when we download it to the computer.

[@danobrien7758]

What is the best Mic?

[@Barcafan987]

Can you transfer videos directly to smartphone?

[@VideoGizmology]

Not wirelessly. You need to take out the SD card and use an SD card reader to copy them to your phone.

[@AlexKnightVancouver]

Does it have a setting for clean HDMI out? That is a make or break deal for those interested in using it with a video switcher.

[@VideoGizmology]

I can confirm that the Zoom Q8N has clean HDMI out. There is a DISPLAY button that lets you turn on and off the display on the camera and that allows you to get a clean signal from the HDMI, but they seem to be linked, so you either have displays on your monitor and camera LCD or no displays on either monitors. It's also different if you are recording on the Zoom Q8N, which seems to disable the display regardless of if you have the display turned on or off on the camera. Kinda of strange, maybe a firmware update will fix this.

[@viclobocga2615]

Do you know what brand name SD cards 512GB & 256GB are compatible with Zoom Q8N-4K

[@harrymiram5562]

Samsung 512 was ordered/shipped w/my Q8n-4k. Prefer SanDisk but no major issues

[@mikekozlowski6981]

I have the Q8 is it worth upgrading to Q8N?

[@VideoGizmology]

If you like the Q8, I think the Q8N is worth the upgrade for the video quality. Better video quality, better USB streaming, the user interface is a little easier to use. But if all you care about is the audio quality, there isn't a noticeable difference to me.

[@btudrus]

Your movements in this video are very "manic" and really hard to view. I wish you had more calm views of the camera. It's making me sick to watch this video... Otherwise a nice review...

[@VideoGizmology]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@extremotionaltrouffas]

What are u talkin about? I watched it all the way through at X1.5 speed fair comfortably. And I'm not even english native. 😂😂😂

[@gsonn18]

​​@@extremotionaltrouffas I know! WTH is Butrus talking about! I didn't see no shaking! Dude, are you high?

[@jamiedennewitz]

They both have the fish eye effect. Zoom should have fixed this in the new edition.

[@scourneene]

Is it possible to record just audio from it? 😊

[@VideoGizmology]

Yes.

[@RealPivotTV]

Ole sticky

[@doylegrizzle4906]

For some reason Zoom is stuck at $399

[@johnsarkis5300]

I have both lol

[@moelew3]

I don’t like that it’s a fish eye lens 😢

[@ruudgilmour]

Very disappointing product, I use it for recording concerts. A handy compact camera, sound quality is ok but the video quality is terrible. totally unsuitable for recording a concert even in 4k. the video quality of the previous Zoom cameras was also not good but better than this thing.

[@Khalid.F95]

These 2 cameras are either a genius invention or a complete flop, do you think recording a video podcast with 2 xlr mics on the Q8N-4K for up to 2 hours is possible?

[@VideoGizmology]

Yes, I think recording a two person podcast is possible for both internal remote recording or live streaming, but I really believe this product is best designed for musicians who want to record rehearsals or performances with the option to live stream online.

[@paulussantosociwidjaja4781]

Oopsy. #subscribe

[@HouseBladeDesign]

Anyway to stop tje dish fish eye

[@Aristedes_Mr.Melody_TM]

#ZoomQ8N SUCKS! I bought it and it is thoroughly lousy.