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Zoom R8 Recorder, Interface and Sampler

A compact ministudio for musicians in small studios and musicians on the go!

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SKU: ZOOMR8

Product Description

The Zoom R8 takes the idea of a Portastudio to a new level of compact portability! The R8 is not only a multitrack recorder (two simultaneous tracks and eight in total); but it also acts as a sampler with built in stereo mic, an audio interface when recording to a PC or Mac, and a control surface when mixing on a DAW.

The R8 is ideal for a musician who is in a creative mood more often than not. Whenever inspiration strikes, you can take the R8 out of your gig bag/day bag and record your ideas. Whether just humming a tune, or recording a full blown multitrack! Now that all your work is on the R8, take it home, plug it into a PC or Mac and either finish your recording, or start mixing in your favourite DAW, thanks to the R8's DAW control surface mode!

If you just can't wait to show off your track, why not create a mix of it on the R8? With built in effects and plugins, and on-board hardware faders, the R8's mixing interface is intuitive and fast!

In short, the Zoom R8 means you can create wherever, and whenever, without limitations. Great for home studio users, musicians on the go and those who flit between the studio, rehearsals and the stage. With a Zoom R8 in your gig bag, none of your musical ideas will ever be forgotten again!

Here's what Zoom say about the Zoom R8 Recorder and Sampler

Zoom takes the turbocharged design of the R24 and scales it down for an ultra-portable music production solution. Like its predecessor, the R8 combines four production tools in one versatile device. In addition to being an 8-track recorder that utilizes SD memory, the R8 is an audio interface, a DAW control surface and a sampler complete with drum pads and a rhythm machine.

RECORDER

Simultaneous recording of 2 tracks and playback of 8 tracks

The R8 is the perfect tool for capturing audio on-the-go. Record live music performances, rehearsals, songwriting sessions or even audio for film and video. Playback up to eight tracks of audio at up to 24-bit/48kHz resolution as WAV files. If you make a mistake, use the UNDO/REDO function to cancel the last recording operation and restore the previous state. You can even mix down completed songs inside the R8 and save a mix for each project.

INTERFACE

Audio interface supports 2 inputs and 2 outputs

When combined with your computer, the R8 becomes a powerful audio interface. Connect the R8 to your computer via USB, launch your favorite DAW or use the included Cubase LE software and start laying down your tracks. Simultaneous 2-in/2-out capability allows you to record up to 24-bit/96kHz high definition audio. If you use the 44.1kHz sampling rate, the internal DSP effects of the R8 are also available for your computer tracks. A dedicated control lets you adjust the mixing balance between the DAW playback sound and the direct sound for monitoring.

CONTROLLER

Control surface functions for most DAW software

The R8 can be used as a control surface for DAW transport functions (play, record, stop) and mixing operations. Through a USB connection, you can control the transport and mixing functions of major DAWs such as Cubase, Logic, and Sonar from the R8. In addition, you can easily move multiple faders at the same time. No more mixing with a mouse! The R8 makes mixing a pleasure.

SAMPLER

8-voice sampler with 8 pads

The built-in sampler functions allow you to loop audio data on any track. You can play the pads in real-time and combine loops to create a performance for an entire song. When setting loop intervals, you can see the waveforms for visual confirmation. Time-stretching, which allows you to change the tempo without changing the pitch, and trimming the unneeded parts of loops, is also possible. You can use the sampler and recorder functions together seamlessly to play back loop tracks while recording instrumental performances on other tracks.

Create your own beats with the powerful rhythm machine

The R8's rhythm machine includes 10 types of drum kits that use linear PCM audio samples. Use the touch-sensitive drum pads to program up to 511 of your own beats, and use the rhythm patterns that you create just like audio loops. Use the R8's pads to start playback of patterns and use the R8's sequencer to arrange them into songs. You can start fast with the 472 preset patterns, which include intros, fills, endings and other phrase variations.

Built-in stereo microphones

The built-in high-sensitivity stereo microphones are convenient for recording sketches of musical phrases and melodies as they come to mind. Use these mics for clear recordings of vocals and acoustic instruments.

Over 140 DSP effects, including guitar amp modeling

The DSP effects, which include 146 types and 370 patches, can be used for recording, mixing and mastering. Insert effects are comprised of seven modules and include algorithms for guitars, basses, vocals and other sounds. One insert effect can be used simultaneously with the two types of send-return effects. 18 types of guitar amplifier models from our best-selling G2Nu and 6 types of bass amp models are included, so you can re-create a realistic amp sound simply by connecting a guitar or bass directly to the R8.

Supports SDHC cards with capacities of up to 32GB

The R8 uses compact and readily-available SD and SDHC memory cards as recording media. Unlike tape and disk recorders, this unit has no motor, making it more resistant to physical interference and concerns about mechanical noise.

Locate functions make editing easier

Set up to 100 markers and directly move to them whenever you want. Also, use the A-B repeat function to play or re-record a designated interval and use auto punch-in and punch-out for efficient editing.

Rapid file transfer with Hi-Speed USB 2.0

The R8's Hi-Speed USB 2.0 port allows WAV-format audio files recorded on the R8 to be sent to a computer smoothly and rapidly. Use the R8 with a computer for additional music production, including editing with DAW software, creating original CDs and importing WAV files.

Versatile inputs for guitars, mics and line sources

The two balanced XLR-1/4-inch combination inputs can provide phantom power, so you can use studio-class condenser microphones to make professional-level recordings. One channel also includes a Hi-Z switch, allowing guitars, basses and other high-impedance instruments to be recorded.

Tuner and metronome functions

The R8's built-in tuner is great for quickly tuning instruments and checking vocal pitch. The metronome can provide a click track for a drummer during recording and is also useful in practice settings. The metronome can also be sent to just the headphones. This allows you to play along to backing tracks previously recorded on the R8.

Powered by an AC adapter, batteries or USB bus power

Power options provide flexibility for different situations. Power the R8 on its own in one of two ways-with the included AC adapter or four alkaline AA batteries. The R8 operates for over 5 hours on batteries, plenty of time for most field recordings. When using the audio interface or control surface functions, the R8 can be powered by the computer's USB bus.

Easy hands-free operation

Using a ZOOM FS01 footswitch (sold separately), you can control the recorder transport (play, stop, rewind), punch-in for recording and change effect patches with your foot. With the R8, you can easily record without ever taking your hands off your guitar.

Steinberg Cubase LE DAW software included

Cubase LE is a powerful music production software for recording, editing and mixing both audio and MIDI tracks. Cubase LE uses an audio engine that is equivalent to software that have received numerous awards and is an ideal introduction to computer-based music production.

R8 Audio Interface System Requirements

Windows

  • Windows XP SP3 or later - Vista SP1 or later
  • Intel Pentium 4 1.8GHz or better
  • RAM:1GB or more
  • USB2.0 compatible port

Intel Mac

  • OS X 10.5.8/10.6.5 or later
  • Intel Core Duo 1.83GHz or better
  • RAM - 1GB or more
  • USB2.0 compatible port

* USB hub is not supported.
* Intel Chipset is recommended.

Included Accessories

  • AC Adapter(AD-17)
  • USB Cable

Technical Specifications

Recorder

  • Physical Tracks: 8
  • Simultaneous Recording Tracks: 2
  • Simultaneous Playback Tracks: 8
  • Recording Data Format: 44.1/48kHz, 16/24bit WAV
  • Maximum Recordable Time: 200 minutes / GB (44.1kHz 16-bit, mono tracks)
  • Projects: 1,000
  • Markers: 100 / Project
  • Locator: Hours / Min. / Sec. / msec or Bars / Beats / Ticks
  • File Editing: Divide, Trim
  • Other Functions: Punch-In / Out (Manual, Automatic), Bounce, Marker, A-B Repeat, Undo / Redo, Metronome

Audio interface

  • Input Channels: 2
  • Output Channels: 2
  • Quantization: 24bit
  • Sampling Frequency: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96kHz

Mixer

  • Faders: 9
  • Level Meters: 19-step LCD, Post-fader
  • Track Parameters: 3-band Equalizer, Pan (Balance), Effect Send x 2, Invert
  • Stereo Links Track pairs: 1/2 to 7/8 selectable

Effects

  • Algorithms: 8 (CLEAN, DISTORTION, ACO/BASS SIM, BASS, MIC, DUAL MIC, STEREO, MASTERING)
  • Types: 146
  • Modules: 7 for Insert, 2 for Send / Return
  • Patches: 310 for Insert, 60 for Send / Return
  • Tuner: Chromatic, Guitar, Bass, Open A/D/E/G, D modal

Sampler

  • Playback Data Format: 44.1/48kHz, 16/24bit WAV
  • Voices: 8
  • Editing Functions: Trim, Time-stretch

Rhythm

  • Voices: 8
  • Sound Format: 16-bit Linear PCM
  • Drum Kits: 10
  • Pads: 8 (velocity-sensitive)
  • Precision: 48PPQN
  • Rhythm Patterns: 511/project
  • Patterns: 511 (472 factory, 39 blank) / Project
  • Beat: 1/4-8/4
  • Tempo: 40.0 - 250.0BPM

Hardware

  • Recording Media: SD Card (16MB-2GB), SDHC Card (4-32GB)
  • A/D Conversion: 96kHz 24bit delta-sigma ADC
  • D/A Conversion: 96kHz 24bit delta-sigma DAC
  • Display: 128 x 64 pixel LCD (with backlight)
  • Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" Phone Combo Jack / Input Impedance: (Balanced input) 1kohm balanced, 2nd hot, (Unbalanced input) 50kohm unbalanced, (Hi-Z Input) 470kohm / Input Level: -50dBm to +4dBm continuously variable
  • Built-in microphones: Omnidirectional condenser microphones / Gain: -50dBm to +4dBm continuously variable
  • Phantom Power Supply: 48V, 24V
  • Master Output: 1/4"TRS Phone (balanced) / Output Impedance: 1kohm / Rated Output Level: +4dBm
  • Headphones Output: 1/4" Stereo Phone Jack, 20mW x 2 (at 32ohm load)
  • USB: Mini-B type (USB2.0 High-Speed compatible)] Audio Interface / Control Surface or Mass Storage Class operation
  • Power Requirements: AC adapter (DC5V/1A/center positive) or AA size (LR6) battery x 4
  • Battery Life: 5.5 hours (with backlight on and phantom power off)
  • Dimensions: 257(W) x 190(D) x 51(H) mm
  • Weight: 780g (without batteries)
Specifications
Brand
Zoom

Customer Reviews

4.7

27 reviews

Value

Looks

Durability

Sound

Mr Robert Ashton22nd Jul 2023

Very happy with this bit of kit. I had not realized how capable a piece of equipment the R8 is. I've been very pleasantly surprised by the unit's DSP options, as well as the extent to which recordings can be manipulated and the sequencing and sampling modes. You really can't go wrong for £170. An extremely useful recorder for demo-ing songs and quickly realizing ideas.

Value 5Looks 4Durability 3Sound 4

Mr david kent15th Apr 2023

I have a studio in a windowless basement. with the current cost of living crisis I decided to cut costs. a portable digital recorder capable of using battery power, recording to sd card in wav. format to both 16 & 24 bit gave me the option to transfer to my Tascam dp32sd or DAW. the zoom r8 offered me everything I wanted and more. 2 inputs, 8 recordable tracks, a beats programme and full mastering facilities. using it took me back to my old Tascam portastudio (tape) days, and all the fun I had then!

Value 5Looks 4Durability 5Sound 5

Mr Stephen Short28th Mar 2023

Value 4Looks 3Durability 3Sound 4

Mr Michael Morrice27th Jan 2023

Value 5Looks 4Durability 4Sound 5

Mr david hewitt7th Nov 2022

Value 5Looks 4Durability 4Sound 4

Mrs Alison Davies29th Jul 2022

This little recorder is brilliant - much more than a recorder, and very reasonably priced.

Value 5Looks 4Durability 4

Trusted Customer25th Jun 2022

This is a great device for the price. I got it because I didn't want to spend my music time in front of a computer (I already do that for work). It's not as powerful or flexible as a DAW, but you don't have to sit in front of a screen, worry about latency, compatibility or software updates. The device is not so intuitive that I could have worked it out without a manual - on the other hand I only had to read the manual once. Once you know how things work it's logical and you don't need to go back to the manual. You can record up to two tracks at once, and play back 8 tracks. You get 3 band eq, reverb and chorus for each of the 8 tracks. Other effects (e.g. distort) can only be applied to one track at a time, typically you'd use it on your input, though you can use it on a track then mix it down. The sequencer is very usable given the small screen size ! Very practical if you only want to record your bass line for the chorus once for example. I wouldn't use it for anything finer grained than that, though you can sequence down to bar level if you really want too. I've not used it as a sampler or audio interface. I've not used the in-build drum machine, so can't comment on those features.

Value 5Looks 5Sound 4

Mr Patrick Law6th Dec 2021

Value 4Looks 4Durability 4

Mr VINCENT WHITELAW5th Oct 2021

As a portable multi track , it's superb.

Value 5Looks 4Sound 5

christopher d thomas15th Sep 2021

Easy to use, good coverage on YouTube

Value 4Looks 4Durability 4

Finance available at checkout for orders £300+

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Who can apply for finance?

You must: spend over £300, be at least 18 years of age, have been a UK resident for 3 years or more, be able to make repayments by Direct Debit, be in regular employment (minimum of 16 hours per week) including self-employment, or in permanent residence with your partner who is in regular employment.

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Andertons Music Company's Registered Office: 58-59 Woodbridge Road, Guildford, GU1 4RF. Andertons Music Company acts as a credit broker and not a lender and only offers credit products from Secure Trust Bank PLC trading as V12 Retail Finance. Not all products offered by Secure Trust Bank PLC are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Andertons Music Company is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, firm registration number 716155. Credit provided subject to age and status.