Operation Manual

You must read the Usage and Safety Precautions before use.

Operation Manual

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Notes about this Operation Manual

You might need this manual in the future. Always keep it in a place where you can access it easily.

The contents of this document and the specications of the product could be changed without notice.

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Example: Noise Reduction

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broadcasts, without permission of the copyright holder for any purpose other than personal use is prohib-

ited by law. Zoom Corporation will not assume any responsibility related to infringements of copyrights.

Introduction

Thank you very much for purchasing a ZOOM

PodTrak.

The

is a multitrack recorder designed for podcasting. After connecting mics and headphones, high-quality audio

recording can be started right away. The

combines all the functions necessary to produce podcasts, including

audio enhancement and episode editing in a single device, so we can recommend it to all podcasters from

beginners to veterans. We hope you will enjoy recording and producing polished episodes in a variety of locations.

Main features of the

Multitrack recording of up to six people at once

The sound qualities and levels of the 6 mic inputs can be adjusted for the voices of the participants. The 6

headphone outputs allow everyone participating to monitor the sound that is being recorded. In addition to a

stereo le ready to be used for podcasting, separate les for the audio of each channel can also be recorded

and utilized for editing after recording.

Mic sounds can be adjusted optimally

In addition to dynamic mics, the high-quality built-in mic preamps support condenser mics that require

phantom power (+48 V). With a single switch, the level of an input can be set optimally according to the mic

type. Moreover, in addition to a limiter and low-cut lter, tone adjustment, a compressor that evens out the

volume, a de-esser that suppresses sibilance and noise reduction can be applied to the mic sound. All the

signal processing is tailored for voices, and each feature is simply turned on/off or adjusted with a single

parameter, enabling settings to be made easily even without previous expertise in sound mixing.

Every necessary editing function is built in

The

has every necessary editing function to complete episodes for distribution. These include deleting unnecessary

parts of recorded data, optimizing levels automatically, and combining opening and ending les. Intuitive operation

using the large 4.3-inch color touchscreen allows anyone to easily complete podcasts without using a computer.

Instant playback of jingles and recorded interviews

The SOUND PAD function includes nine pads with four banks that can be switched even during recording.

These pads can be used to play built-in sounds and other audio les in real time. When creating multiple

programs, different banks can be prepared for each program. In addition, since the colors that the SOUND PAD

buttons light can be set, le assignments can be made easy to see. For example, they could be set blue for les

with recorded interviews. Use these to enhance podcasting and live streaming.

Remote recording

If all the podcasters cannot gather in one place or you want to invite guests who are far away, you can use

smartphones and computers to enable remote participation in recording. A Mix Minus function prevents echoes

from occurring in the audio of remote participants. By connecting a BTA-2 specialized wireless adapter to the

, a

smartphone can also be connected to it wirelessly.

Live streaming

The 2-in/2-out USB audio interface functions of the

can be used for live streaming and recording with computers,

smartphones and tablets. Since it supports class compliant mode, installation of a dedicated driver is not necessary.

Optional accessory pack

We have prepared an optional Podcast Mic Pack with a dynamic mic (ZDM-1), headphones (ZHP-1) and related

accessories, along with software useful for editing on a computer after recording.

Notes about this Operation Manual

�� 2

Introduction

�� 3

Contents

 �� 4

Podcasting process

 �� 5

overview

�� 7

Explanation of terms ��

Functions of parts ��

Connection examples ��

Use examples ��

Signal ow ��

Touchscreen display ��

Preparing for use

 �� 17

Inserting SD cards ��

Providing power ��

Turning the power on ��

Making initial settings ��

Connecting

 �� 24

Connecting mics ��

Connecting headphones ��

Connecting smartphones ��

Connecting a BTA-2

(dedicated wireless adapter) ��

Connecting a computer, smartphone or tablet

by USB ��

Connecting powered speakers and other

output equipment ��

Recording

�� 32

Adjusting input gain and sound quality ��

Balancing the mix of channel levels ��

Recording ��

Playing recordings

�� 37

Playing recordings on the Home Screen ��

Selecting les and playing them ��

Using marks

�� 40

Adding marks ��

Deleting marks ��

Using SOUND PAD functions

�� 42

Playing SOUND PAD buttons ��

Assigning audio les to SOUND PAD

buttons ��

Adjusting the levels of each SOUND PAD �

Setting playback modes for each SOUND

PAD ��

Changing bank names ��

Managing les

�� 49

Deleting les ��

Combining multiple les into one in specic

order ��

Editing les

 �� 55

Opening the File Editing Screen ��

Changing le names ��

Changing icons ��

Cutting unnecessary parts (trimming) ��

Dividing les ��

Adding fade-ins and outs ��

Adding music and other background

sound ��

Optimizing podcast volume

(loudness normalization) ��

Converting les to MP3 format ��

Transferring les to a computer, smartphone or

tablet

�� 72

Transferring les to a computer, smartphone

or tablet ��

folder and le structure ��

Modifying the date and time

 �� 74

Changing the touchscreen display language

� 75

Setting the battery type

 �� 76

Adjusting the brightness of the touchscreen

� 77

Using noise reduction

 �� 78

Setting recording le types

�� 79

Testing SD cards

�� 80

Formatting SD cards

�� 83

Using SD cards to back up and load settings

� 84

Backing up ��

Loading backup settings ��

Setting the automatic power off function

 �� 87

Restoring factory default settings

�� 88

Updating the rmware

�� 89

Troubleshooting

�� 90

General ��

Audio interface ��

Specications

�� 92

Mixer block diagram

�� 93

Contents

Podcasting process

Prepare and conrm

connections

●

Preparations

Install an SD card in the

, provide it power, and set the date and time.

●

Connecting and checking

Connect microphones and headphones.

• By using a single mic for each person, levels can be adjusted to suit each voice,

enabling clear recording of all voices.

• Adjust the distance between the participants and their mics so that they can

be recorded at stable levels. On the

, the input gain can be set suitably for a

connected mic by setting its INPUT SELECT switch.

•

Using the

, tones of voices can be adjusted and compressors and de-essers

can be applied.

• Mute input channels that are not being used to prevent noise from being picked

up.

• Headphones are necessary to not only conrm the inputs from the mics,

but also to hear SOUND PAD playback and the voices of guests participating

remotely.

If a guest in a distant location is participating remotely in recording, connect the

to a computer, smartphone or tablet.

• The smartphone connector is designed to prevent echo when used. When using

the USB port, turn on USB Mix Minus to prevent echo.

Conrm the levels and other settings of the SOUND PAD buttons, which can

be used for one-touch playback of background music, jingles and other sounds

during recording.

●

Countermeasures for environmental noise in recording locations

• Attaching windscreens to mics can reduce noise caused by wind blowing.

Adjust the directions of mics so that they do not point toward other sources of

environmental noise.

• Touching mics and power cables during recording could result in handling noise

that sounds like crackling. Use mic stands and put cables in order beforehand.

Placing mic cables and power cables too close together can result in noise

being picked up.

•

Enabling the Low Cut function on the

mic input settings screens can reduce

the amount of vibration, wind and other noise picked up by mics.

• When multiple mics are being used to record sound, turning on noise reduction

on the

ON AIR settings screen can suppress background noise to a constant

level by automatically reducing the levels of the mic inputs not being used by

people.

2. Record

●

Recording theme

To enable recording conversations at a good pace, conrm the discussion topics

with the other participants and prepare reference materials and other resources

so that they are at hand.

●

Speaking tips

Try to speak clearly while avoiding making sibilant (hissing s) and plosive (p and d)

sounds too loud.

●

SOUND PAD buttons

Use these to add excitement to programs with jingles and effects.

3. Publish

●

Publishing

The

USB le transfer screen can be used to connect to a computer,

smartphone or tablet and transfer recorded les. Upload them to the podcasting

service* or server you are using.

*Service that provides servers for saving podcast les

●

Editing before release

The

can be used to edit recorded stereo les for podcasting in the following

ways.

• Unnecessary parts can be cut, and fade ins/outs can be added.

• Background music can be added.

• The loudness normalization function can even out the volume ideally for

podcasting.

• Openings and endings that have been prepared in advance can be attached to

the beginnings and ends.

• Files can be converted to MP3s.

Moreover, the individual les recorded for each channel on the

can be used

for detailed editing in a DAW and to make adjustments for the voices of each

participant.

overview

Explanation of terms

Audio interface

The

enables sounds from mics and instruments, for example, to be input to a computer, smartphone

or tablet. It can also output sounds from that device to speakers and headphones.

USB audio return

When the

is connected as an audio interface, this is the signal output from the computer, smartphone

or tablet. Background music can be played from the connected device.

SOUND PAD buttons

Audio les can be assigned to these. Press one to play the assigned le. This is convenient for playing

interviews that have been recorded in advance, opening and ending music and jingles.

The 9 SOUND PAD buttons can have audio les assigned in 4 banks, for a total of 36 les.

USB Mix Minus

When using the

as an audio interface, signals input by USB can be set to not be output back to

USB. This can prevent feedback to the person at the other end when recording while calling through a

computer, smartphone or tablet.

ON AIR button

When ON AIR buttons are turned off, input sounds are not output to the USB port (streaming audio) or

SPEAKER OUT jacks, nor are they recorded to the podcast stereo le. This function is convenient, for

example, when participants are discussing the next topic among themselves while music is playing.

Podcasting

This is one way to share audio les publicly on the Internet. Podcasters make content and distribute it via

the Internet so people can listen easily on smartphones, computers and other devices.

Dynamic mic

This type of mic does not require phantom power and is strong and durable.

Condenser mic

This type of mic usually has high sensitivity and can capture audio with high quality. Phantom power

supply is necessary for use.

Functions of parts

■

To p

INPUT jacks

INPUT SELECT

switches

Touchscreen

Channel

faders

BTA-2 power supply connector

Smartphone connection jack

PHONES jacks

PHONES knobs

SPEAKER OUT jacks

MUTE buttons

ON AIR buttons

SOUND PAD A–I buttons

USB OUT knob

SPEAKER OUT knob

STOP button

REC button

PLAY/PAUSE button

MARK button

INPUT jacks

These input jacks have built-in mic preamps.

INPUT SELECT switches

Set these according to the connected equipment.

Dynamic mic

Condenser mic (supplies +48V phantom power)

Computer, smartphone or tablet

Touchscreen

This shows the status of the

, and can be operated by touch to make various settings and edit les.

MUTE buttons

Use to mute (lit) and unmute (unlit) signals.

ON AIR buttons

When lit, channel signals are recorded in the podcast stereo le and sent to the USB port, SPEAKER

OUT jacks, PHONES jacks and smartphone connection jack.

When unlit, channel signals are only sent to the PHONES jacks and smartphone connection jack.

Channel faders

These adjust channel signal levels in ranges from −∞ to +10 dB.

BTA-2 power supply connector

Use this power supply connector when connecting a BTA-2 wireless adapter.

Smartphone connection jack

Connect a smartphone here.

SOUND PAD A–I buttons

Use to play the sounds assigned to them.

SPEAKER OUT jacks

These output a stereo mix of the signals from all the channels. Connect them to a power amplier, a

PA system or speakers with built-in ampliers, for example.

PHONES jacks

These output a stereo mix of the signals from all the channels. Connect headphones to these.

PHONES knobs

Use to adjust the volumes of the signals output from the PHONES jacks.

USB OUT knob

Use to adjust the volume of the signal output from the USB port.

SPEAKER OUT knob

Use to adjust the volume of the signals output from the SPEAKER OUT jacks.

STOP button

Use to stop recording/playback.

REC button

Use to start/stop recording.

PLAY/PAUSE button

Use to play/pause recorded les.

MARK button

Press to add marks to recording les during recording/playback. These provide editing guides.

■

Back

Power switch

DC IN 5V AC adapter connector

USB port (Type-C)

SD card slot

Power switch

Use to turn the power on and off.

DC IN 5V AC adapter connector

Connect the included AC adapter here.

USB port (Type-C)

This USB port is for connecting with a computer, smartphone or tablet.

SD card slot

Cards that conform to SDHC and SDXC specications are supported.

Format the SD card with the

before use. ( “Formatting SD cards” on page 83)

Connection examples

SD card

Mics

Dynamic and condenser

mics

Wireless adapter (ZOOM BTA-2)

This enables wireless connection

to smartphones and tablets.

AC adapter

(ZOOM AD-14)

Computer, smartphone or tablet

Using the audio interface function, audio can

be shared with a computer, for example, and

recordings on the SD card can be transferred

for editing.

This might not be usable with some

communication apps.

Smartphone

Guests can participate by phone

during podcasting.

Headphones

USB Type-C

port

Speakers with

built-in ampliers

HINT

We have prepared an optional Podcast Mic Pack that is ideal for podcasting. The set includes a ZDM-1

dynamic mic and ZHP-1 headphones, enabling you to start podcasting right away.

Use examples

Podcasting with a guest participating by phone

By connecting a computer, smartphone or tablet to the

, a guest in a remote location can participate in

a podcast by phone.

Internet

Live streaming

By connecting a

to a computer, smartphone or tablet, you can use it to stream audio in real time.

Internet

Signal ow

L/R

SOUND PAD

ON AIR button litON AIR button unlit

INPUT 1

MUTE FADER

Adjust volume

and audio quality

N.R.

INPUT 2

MUTE FADER

N.R.

INPUT 3

MUTE FADER

N.R.

INPUT 4

MUTE FADER

N.R.

INPUT 5

MUTE FADER

N.R.

INPUT 6

MUTE FADER

N.R.

PHONE

MUTE FADER

Adjust volume

and audio quality

Adjust volume

and audio quality

Adjust volume

and audio quality

Adjust volume

and audio quality

Adjust volume

and audio quality

Adjust audio

quality

Smartphone

connection jack

USB port

Channel 4

Channel 5

Channel 6

Channel 1

Channel 2

Channel 3

SPEAKER OUT

jacks

Smartphone channel

Headphones

Input sound. Channels 1–5 can be used to input sound from mics. Channel 6 can be used to input sound

from a mic or the USB audio return. The smartphone channel can be used to input sound from a smartphone.

Play SOUND PAD sounds.

Make settings for inputs on each channel. Input gain can be adjusted, and a function that cuts unwanted low

frequencies and a limiter can be turned on or off (mic inputs only). In addition, the sound quality of all inputs

can be adjusted.

Mute/unmute channels. Inputs not being used can be muted.

Use the faders to adjust the levels of each channel in the mix.

Turn ON AIR on or off. When the ON AIR button is off (unlit), sound will not be output to the podcast stereo

le, SPEAKER OUT jacks or USB port.

Turn noise reduction on or off. When multiple mics are being used to record sound, turning this on suppresses

background noise to a constant level by automatically reducing the levels of the mic inputs not being used by

people.

A recording le is made for podcasting. This combines all channels and the SOUND PAD sounds into a stereo

le.

Output the mixed sound of all channels

or the playback of audio les on an SD card to speakers with built-in

amplication, for example.

A mix of all channels is output to the computer, smartphone or tablet connected by USB. When the USB Mix

Minus setting ( page 30) is on, the sound input through channel 6 (the USB audio return) is not included.

A mix of all channels is output to the connected smartphone. The sound from the connected smartphone

itself, however, is not sent back to it.

Monitor the sound of the recording for podcasting through headphones.

Channels with ON AIR off will also be

output.

The volume can be adjusted separately for each pair of headphones.

HINT

Individual les can also be recorded for INPUT 1–6, PHONE and SOUND PAD channels. ( “Setting

recording le types” on page 79)

Touchscreen display

Home Screen overview

This screen appears on the touchscreen when the

power is turned on.

This shows the state of the

, including recording conditions and input levels. In addition, various

functions can easily be accessed by tapping buttons on it.

Track buttons

Use these to make input settings for

each channel, including mic settings and

audio quality adjustments. The icons

depend on the selected input type.

Level meters

These show the output

levels of each channel

and the stereo mix for

podcasting.

Library button

This shows les on the

SD card, and enables le

management and editing.

Counter

This shows either the current elapsed

recording time or the remaining

available recording time.

Date and time

Use to make settings

related to the date/time

and display language.

SD card button

Use to make settings related to

the SD card.

ON AIR settings button

Use to turn Noise Reduction on/off and

make recording track settings.

Status icon

This shows the recorder status.

•

Recording

•

Recording paused

•

Mark added

•

Recording stopped

Power button

Use to make settings related to

the power.

• Powered by AC adapter:

• Powered by USB:

• Powered by batteries

Full Empty

Touchscreen operation overview

■

Using various screens

Operate by tapping and sliding.

Slide to adjust

(move left/right while

touching)

Slide to scroll items

(move up/down while

touching)

Tap to select or turn on/off

Off

ON/OFF button

■

Returning to the previous screen or the Home Screen

Tap at the top left of the screen.

To return to the Home Screen, tap

repeatedly until it appears.

Character input screen

The character input screen appears on the touchscreen when changing the names of les and SOUND

PAD banks.

Tap the keyboard and input characters.

Delete characters.

Input characters and spaces.

Move the cursor.

Switch between upper and

lower case.

Character input area

A cursor shows the input position.

Change the character type.

Conrm the input name and

return to the original screen.

Cancel the input and return to

the original screen.

NOTE

The characters and symbols that can be used are as follows.

! # $ ' ( ) +, - ; = @ [ ] ^ _ ` { } ~ (space) A–Z, a–z, 0–9

Preparing for use

Inserting SD cards

SD card slot

With the power off, open the SD card slot cover, and insert an SD card all the way into the slot.

To remove an SD card, push it further into the slot and then pull it out.

NOTE

• Cards that conform to SDHC and SDXC specications are supported.

• Disable write-protection on the SD card before inserting it.

• Inserting or removing an SD card while the power is on could result in data loss.

• When inserting an SD card, be sure to insert the correct end with the top side up as shown.

• If an SD card is not loaded, recording and playback are not possible.

• Before using SD cards that have just been purchased or that have been formatted on a computer, they

must be formatted by the

( “Formatting SD cards” on page 83).

Providing power

The

can be powered by an AC adapter, USB bus power or batteries.

The order of power supply priority is AC adapter rst, USB bus power next, and batteries last.

Using an AC adapter

Connect the dedicated AC adapter (AD-14) cable to the DC IN 5V AC adapter connector and the adapter to

an outlet.

DC IN 5V AC adapter connector

Installing batteries

To run the

on battery power, open the battery compartment cover on the bottom and install 4 AA

batteries.

Open while pressing up

NOTE

• Use only one type of battery (alkaline, NiMH or lithium) at a time.

• Set the type of battery used correctly so that the amount of remaining battery charge can be shown

accurately. ( “Setting the battery type” on page 76)

• The battery charge can be checked on the Home Screen ( page 15).

Other power sources

By connecting this USB port (Type-C) to a computer, the

can be operated on USB bus power.

Operation using a portable battery is also possible.

Portable battery

USB port (Type-C)

NOTE

When Tablet Mode ( page 29) is on, operation using USB bus power is not possible.

Turning the power on

Conrm that the output devices connected to the

are turned off.

Set all and faders to their minimum values.

Set to ON.

This turns the power on and opens the Home Screen on the touchscreen.

The rst time the power is turned on after purchase and after the

has been restored to its factory

default state, make initial settings. (

“Making initial settings” on page 22)

Turn on the output devices connected to the

NOTE

When running on power from the AC adapter, the

will automatically turn off if it is unused for 10

hours. To keep the power on at all times, disable the automatic power saving function. (

“Setting the

automatic power off function” on page 87)

Turning the power off

Minimize the volume of output devices connected to the

Turn off the output devices connected to the

Set to OFF.

After “Goodbye See You!” appears on the touchscreen, the power turns off.

NOTE

When the power is turned off, the current settings are saved on the

Making initial settings

Setting the date/time and language (rst time starting up)

The rst time the power is turned on after purchase, a screen where the date/time and language can be

set opens on the touchscreen.

The date and time are stored in recorded les, and the date and time recording started are used in the

le name. Having the correct date and time set is helpful when looking for les, for example, by allowing

content to be identied by names.

The language shown on the touchscreen can also be selected.

Tap the language to be shown on the touchscreen.

The touchscreen display will change to the selected language.

Tap and to set the Year, Month, Day, Hour, and Minute.

After setting the date and time, tap .

This conrms the set date and time and opens the ON AIR settings screen.

HINT

The date/time and language settings can be changed later by tapping the Date and Time display on the

Home Screen. ( “Modifying the date and time” on page 74)

Setting noise reduction and recording le types (rst time starting up)

Next, turn Noise Reduction on or off and set the recording le type.

When multiple mics are being used to record sound, the noise reduction function of the

suppresses

background noise to a constant level by automatically reducing the levels of the mic inputs not being

used by people.

Tap the ON/OFF button to turn Noise Reduction on or off.

Tap the recording le type setting.

Setting Explanation

Off Only record stereo les for podcasting.

Original Data

In addition to stereo les for podcasting, individual les are also recorded for

each channel. The individual les for each channel are recorded before being

affected by the fader, Tone, Comp/DeEss and other adjustments.

With Tone & Comp

In addition to stereo les for podcasting, individual les are also recorded for

each channel. The individual les for each channel are recorded before faders, but

after being affected by the Tone, Comp/DeEss and other adjustments.

When done making settings, tap .

This complete initial settings and opens the Home Screen on the touchscreen.

HINT

The noise reduction and recording le settings can be changed later by tapping on the Home

Screen. ( “Using noise reduction” on page 78, “Setting recording le types” on page 79)

Connecting

Connecting mics

Connect mics to capture sound. Up to 6 mics can be connected.

INPUT SELECT

switches 1–6

Set to

when using

a dynamic mic or

to when using a

condenser mic.

Gain will be set suitably

for the selection.

MUTE buttons 1–6

Conrm that these

are not lit.

Dynamic and condenser

mics

Use mic cables (with XLR

connectors) to connect

them to INPUT jacks 1–6.

2: HOT 1: GND

3: COLD

ON AIR buttons 1–6

Conrm that they

are lit.

Track buttons 1–6

Tap to adjust mic gain

and audio quality

(

page 32).

Track buttons appear as follows

according to their INPUT

SELECT switch settings.

setting:

NOTE

When an INPUT SELECT switch is set to

, +48V phantom power is supplied to that INPUT jack. When

connecting to a device that is not compatible with phantom power, do not set the INPUT SELECT switch

to . Doing so could damage the device.

Connecting headphones

Connect headphones to check the sound. The PHONES 1–6 jacks output the same sound.

Up to 6 pairs of headphones can be connected.

PHONES knobs 1–6

Use these to adjust

headphone volumes.

Headphones

Connect to PHONES jacks 1–6.

Raise

Lower

Connecting smartphones

The following operations are possible when a smartphone is connected to the smartphone connection

jack.

• When podcasting, the voice of a guest participating by phone can be input on the smartphone channel.

By using a 4-contact mini-plug cable, a signal can be input from a smartphone and a mono signal can be

sent back to it simultaneously. Since this output signal does not include the sound from the smartphone

channel, guests participating by phone will not have an echo.

• Music played back on a smartphone can be input on the smartphone channel.

MUTE button

Conrm that this is not

lit.

ON AIR button

Conrm that this is lit.

4-contact mini-

plug cable

mix output

signal

(excludes audio

signal from call

participant)

Audio signal

from call

participant

Tip: Left channel (from smartphone)

Ring 1: Right channel (from smartphone)

Ring 2: Ground

Sleeve: mono mix (from

)

4-contact mini-plug

Track button

Tap to adjust the audio

quality (

page 34).

Connecting a BTA-2 (dedicated wireless adapter)

By connecting a BTA-2, audio can be input through the smartphone connection jack via Bluetooth.

LED

Pairing

switch

Connecting

Pairing must be conducted the rst time connecting.

While the

power is off, connect the BTA-2 to the smartphone connection jack and the BTA-2 power

supply connector.

BTA-2

Turn the

power on ( “Turning the power on” on page 20).

The LED lights white when power is being supplied to the BTA-2.

If a smartphone has already been paired, it will automatically be connected at this time.

Press and hold the pairing switch until the BTA-2 LED blinks white.

This puts the BTA-2 into connection standby.

Conduct connection procedures on the smartphone.

The LED will light blue when connection completes.

Disconnecting

Conduct disconnection procedures on the smartphone.

This disconnects it.

The

power should be off when disconnecting a BTA-2.

Connecting a computer, smartphone or tablet by USB

The following operations are possible when a computer, smartphone or tablet is connected to the USB

port (Type-C).

Audio interface function

• Background music playing or communication audio on a computer, smartphone or tablet can be input

on channel 6. (

“Inputting USB audio return on channel 6” on page 30)

•

Sound input through the

and sounds played with SOUND PAD buttons can be sent to a computer,

smartphone or tablet and streamed live as is. (

“Audio interface function overview” on page 29)

USB le transfer function

• Recording les on SD cards can be transferred to computers, smartphones and tablets. These les

can then be uploaded to hosting services and servers that you are using. (

“Transferring les to a

computer, smartphone or tablet” on page 72)

USB Type-C

port

NOTE

Use a Lightning to USB Camera Adapter (or Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter) to connect to an iOS/

iPadOS device with a lighting connector.



Preparing to connect a smartphone or tablet

Connect an AC adapter or install batteries before turning the

on ( “Turning the power on” on

page 20).

Tap the / power button on the Home Screen.

Tap the Tablet Mode ON/OFF button to turn it on.

Connecting a smartphone or tablet

NOTE

• When Tablet Mode is on, operation using USB bus power is not possible.

• If already operating on USB bus power and batteries have not been installed, Tablet Mode cannot be

turned on/off.

•

Tablet Mode will be off the next time that the

starts up.

HINT

The Tablet Mode function is intended to prevent power draw from smartphones and tablets that are not

capable of providing USB bus power.

Audio interface function overview

The

can be used as a 2-in/2-out audio interface.

The following operations are possible by using the audio interface functions.

Internet

USB OUT knob

Raise

Lower

Use this to adjust the

volume sent to the

computer, smartphone or

tablet.

Music playing or call audio on a computer, smartphone or tablet can be input on channel 6 of the

Audio input to the

and audio played using SOUND PAD buttons can be sent to a computer or other

device connected to the Internet and streamed in real time.

Inputting USB audio return on channel 6

INPUT SELECT

switch 6

Set to

MUTE button 6

Conrm that this is

not lit.

ON AIR button 6

Conrm that this is

lit.

Track button 6

Tap to adjust the audio

quality (

page 34).

Select the

as the input and output device on the connected computer or other device.

NOTE

“ZOOM P8 Audio” will appear on the computer.

Setting USB Mix Minus

When using the

as an audio interface, this can prevent feedback to a person participating in a call

through the connected device.

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap the ON/OFF button to change the USB Mix Minus setting.

Setting Explanation

OFF

Sound from USB input is also output by USB.

ON Sound from USB input is not output by USB.

Connecting powered speakers and other output equipment

Audio from the

can be output to connected powered speakers or other output equipment.

This is useful when, for example, listening to recorded les in a group and editing such les.

SPEAKER OUT knob

This adjusts the volume.

Powered speakers, etc.

Connect these to the SPEAKER OUT jacks.

Raise

Lower

Recording

Adjusting input gain and sound quality

Adjust input gain and sound quality so that the levels being recorded neither cause distortion nor are too

low.

Tap track buttons (

/ / / ) on the Home Screen to open their individual settings screens.

Adjusting mic input (tap / )

The following mic input settings can be made.

Mic Preamp settings

Tone adjustment

Comp/DeEss settings

■

Making mic preamp settings

Adjust the input gain, and turn the Low Cut and Limiter on or off.

Limiter setting

When on, the limiter can prevent

distortion by reducing input signals that

have excessively high levels.

Input level meter

Low Cut setting

When on, this can cut low frequencies to

reduce the sound of air conditioning, wind,

vocal pops and other noise.

Input gain adjustment

Slide to adjust so the input level meter is

in the “Good” range.

HINT

• The level increases when the mic and the speaker’s mouth are close and decreases when they are far

apart. When recording, maintain the same distance between the mic and the speaker’s mouth that was

used when the input gain was adjusted. (The standard distance between mic and mouth is 10–20 cm.)

• The input gain adjustment will automatically be reset when the INPUT SELECT switch is changed.

■

Adjusting the tone

This adjusts the tone, emphasizing low or high frequencies in the voice.

This turns Tone on/off.

Slide to adjust the vocal emphasis.

• Left: emphasize low frequencies

• Right: emphasize high frequencies

HINT

•

With the

, when the slider is in the middle, both low and high frequencies will be slightly

emphasized.

• Double-tap the slider or the bar to reset it to the default value.

■

Adjusting the compressor/de-esser

Compressor and de-esser functions can make voices easier to hear. Turn it on or off, and adjust the

amount of the effect.

• Compressor: This compresses input sounds when they exceed a set level, making them quieter and

evening out the overall volume.

• De-esser: This makes voices sound nicer by suppressing sibilant sounds, which are created through gaps

between teeth when “s” sounds are pronounced, for example.

This turns Comp/DeEss on/off.

Slide to adjust the amount of the effect.

The effect increases to the right.

HINT

Double-tap the slider or the bar to reset it to the default value.

Adjusting USB input (tap )

The high and low frequencies of USB input can be boosted and cut to adjust the audio quality.

Slide to adjust high frequencies.

• Left: cut

• Right: boost

Slide to adjust low frequencies.

• Left: cut

• Right: boost

HINT

Double-tap the slider or the bar to reset it to the default value.

Adjusting smartphone input (tap )

The high and low frequencies of smartphone input can be boosted and cut to adjust the audio quality.

Slide to adjust high frequencies.

• Left: cut

• Right: boost

Slide to adjust low frequencies.

• Left: cut

• Right: boost

HINT

Double-tap the slider or the bar to reset it to the default value.

Balancing the mix of channel levels

Use the faders to adjust the balance between channels.

The level meters on the display show the levels. Adjust them so that clipping indicators do not light.

Level meters for each channel

Clipping

indicators

Level meters for

stereo mix

Adjust the output of each channel.

HINT

• Tapping the level meter area will show level guide values.

• Channel 6 is a mono input when it is set to mic input. When USB audio return is being input, (INPUT

SELECT switch 6 set to ), it becomes a stereo input and stereo level meters will be shown.

Recording

In addition to stereo les for podcasting that are mixes of all the channels, each channel can also be

recorded as an individual le. The application of effects can also be changed for the individual les of each

channel. See “Setting recording le types” on page 79 for le recording settings.

NOTE

Stereo les for podcasting can be edited. ( “Editing les” on page 55)

Recording/recording paused: elapsed recording time

Recording stopped: available recording time

REC indicator

Press when the Home Screen is open.

Recording will start and the REC indicator will light red.

Press

when recording to pause recording. (The REC indicator will blink). Press again to

resume recording.

Press or .

Recording will stop.

Press

during recording to add marks to recording les ( page 40). These are convenient as

guides when editing.

Fader volume adjustments do not affect the individual les of the recorded channels.

HINT

• When the channel 6 INPUT SELECT switch is set to , it will record in stereo.

• Press to mute a channel that is not being used or to turn off its input temporarily.

• Sound input on channels with

unlit is not recorded to the podcast stereo le. This function is

useful, for example, when participants are discussing the next topic among themselves while music is

playing.

• Recorded les will be named with the date and time when recording started. This can be changed later.

(

“Changing le names” on page 57)

• See “P8 folder and le structure” on page 73 for the location where recorded les are saved.

Playing recordings

Playing recordings on the Home Screen

Recorded les can be played back.

PLAY indicator

Press when the Home Screen is open.

The File Editing Screen appears on the touchscreen and the most recently recorded le starts playing.

(The PLAY indicator lights green.)

Press

to start/pause playback alternately. (The PLAY indicator will blink when paused.)

Press

to stop playback. When stopped or paused, press to return to the beginning of the le.

Playback le name

Playback position bar (green)

The elapsed playback time is shown above the playback position bar.

Slide the playback position bar or tap the desired position to move

the playback position.

File length

Mark

Tap to move the playback

position to the mark.

See “Using marks” on page

40 for details about marks.

Tap to start/pause playback.

HINT

• To select a le and play it back, see “Selecting les and playing them” on page 38.

• On the File Editing Screen, in addition to editing, icons and names can be changed, les can be

assigned to SOUND PAD buttons, and les can be converted to MP3 format, for example.

Selecting les and playing them

Files that have been recorded by the

or that are saved on the SD card can be selected and played.

■

File format overview

Select audio les with the following formats.

• Format: WAV

• Sample rate: 44.1 kHz

• Bit rate: 16/24-bit

• Mono/stereo

NOTE

•

If a le is not compatible with the

, its name will be gray and it will not be selectable or an error pop-

up message will appear when it is selected.

•

Files that are not compatible with the

but can be converted will appear on the File List Screen. When

they are selected, they can be converted to a compatible le format. Select the le after conversion.

• After the sample rate of a le has been converted to 44.1 kHz, “_441” will be added to the end of the le

name.

• After a le has been converted from MP3 to WAV, it will have the same name.

• A new le will be created during conversion, so the original le will remain.

Tap on the Home Screen.

This opens the File List Screen.

Tap the audio le you want to play.

Play button

Tap to start and stop

playback.

The editing screen for the selected audio le will be shown.

NOTE

• When using play buttons on the File List Screen to play les, 48kHz, 88.2kHz and 96kHz WAV les can

be played, but they will not be played with the correct pitch or speed.

• Play buttons only appear for WAV les.

Tap or press .

This starts le playback. During playback, the PLAY indicator will light green.

See “Playing recordings on the Home Screen” on page 37 for operations during playback.

HINT

See “Managing les” on page 49 for details about the File List Screen.

Using marks

Marks can be added to recording les during recording ( page 36) and when the File Editing Screen

is open ( page 56). Added marks appear on the File Editing Screen where they can be used as guides

and to change the playback position with a single touch.

Adding marks

MARK button

Press during recording and when the File Editing Screen is open.

During recording

When

is pressed a mark is immediately added at the elapsed recording time.

When the File Editing Screen is open

A mark is added at that position on the playback position bar on the File Editing Screen.

Marks can be added when playing, paused and stopped.

Playback position bar

File editing screen

Mark

Tap to move the playback

position to the mark.

NOTE

Marks cannot be added at the beginnings of les.

Deleting marks

When the File Editing Screen is open ( page 56), tap or press and hold the to be deleted.

If pressing and holding, skip to step 3.

File editing screen

Mark

Press .

Tap Delete.

The mark will be deleted, and the File Editing Screen will reopen.

Select Cancel to cancel deletion.

Using SOUND PAD functions

Audio les can be assigned to the SOUND PAD buttons. Press one to play the assigned le.

The 9 SOUND PAD buttons can have audio les assigned in 4 banks, for a total of 36 les.

This is convenient for playing interviews that have been recorded in advance, opening and ending music

and jingles. The level and playback method can be set for each pad.

Playing SOUND PAD buttons

Press to play the

assigned audio le.

This adjusts the volume.

SOUND PAD

level meters

When a SOUND PAD is playing back, that button will blink.

Switching banks

The selected bank will be shown on the SOUND PAD settings screen, and assigned audio les can be

checked.

By switching between the 4 banks, a total of 36 audio les can be played.

Bank names can also be changed.

Tap on the Home Screen.

This opens the SOUND PAD settings screen.

Switch banks.

Current bank name

Tap the left and right arrows

to switch banks.

(Sliding left/right on the

screen also changes the bank.)

File name

File length

SOUND PAD button

Pad name

Tap the bank name to change it.

( “Changing bank names” on page 48)

Assigning audio les to SOUND PAD buttons

Built-in sounds and audio les saved on an SD card can be assigned to SOUND PAD buttons.

Use a computer beforehand to store the audio le on the SD card in any directory other than the P8_

Multitrack and P8_Settings folders. ( “Transferring les to a computer, smartphone or tablet” on page

72)

■

File format overview

Assign audio les with the following formats.

• Format: WAV

• Sample rate: 44.1 kHz

• Bit rate: 16/24-bit

• Mono/stereo

NOTE

• If a le is not compatible with SOUND PAD assignment, its name will be gray and it will not be

selectable or an error pop-up message will appear when it is selected.

• Files that are not compatible with SOUND PAD assignment but can be converted will appear on the File

List Screen. When they are selected, they can be converted to a compatible le format. The new le will

be automatically assigned after conversion.

• After the sample rate of a le has been converted to 44.1 kHz, “_441” will be added to the end of the le

name.

• After a le has been converted from MP3 to WAV, it will have the same name.

• A new le will be created during conversion, so the original le will remain.

• 88.2kHz and 96kHz WAV les can be assigned to SOUND PAD buttons, but they will not be played with

thecorrect pitch or speed.

• Whether or not 48kHz WAV les are converted to 44.1kHz can be selected. If they are not converted,

they can be assigned to SOUND PAD buttons, but they will not be played with the correct pitch or

speed.

Assigning audio les on the SOUND PAD settings screen

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap the SOUND PAD button (A–I) to which you want to assign an audio le.

Change the bank as necessary (

page 42).

The selected SOUND PAD will light.

Tap the le name.

The built-in sound sources and the audio les stored on the SD card are shown in the list.

HINT

Pressing a SOUND PAD will also set it as the button to receive audio le assignment.

Tap the audio le that you want to assign.

This assigns the selected audio le to the SOUND PAD.

Assigned audio le

HINT

When the Home Screen or SOUND PAD settings screen is open, SOUND PAD buttons that have audio

les assigned will light.

Since the SOUND PAD buttons will light with the same color as the assigned le icons, setting le icon

colors in advance is convenient for identifying playback sounds by color. ( “Changing icons” on page

58)

Assigning audio les from the File Editing Screen

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap the audio le that you want to assign.

Tap .

Tap the SOUND PAD button (A–I) to which you want to assign an audio le.

This assigns the le selected in step 2 to the selected SOUND PAD.

Tap Close to cancel assignment.

HINT

• This assigns audio les to SOUND PAD buttons in the currently selected bank.

• When the Home Screen or SOUND PAD settings screen is open, SOUND PAD buttons that have audio

les assigned will light.

Adjusting the levels of each SOUND PAD

Playback levels can be adjusted separately for each SOUND PAD.

If playback levels differ signicantly, they can be made more consistent.

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap the SOUND PAD button (A–I) for which you want to change the level.

Change the bank as necessary (

page 42).

Slide to adjust the level.

HINT

Double-tap the slider or the bar to reset it to the default value.

Setting playback modes for each SOUND PAD

The sound playback mode used when a SOUND PAD is pressed can be set for each button.

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap the SOUND PAD button (A–I) for which you want to change the playback mode.

Change the bank as necessary (

page 42).

Touch the desired playback mode.

Setting Explanation

One Shot

Each press plays the le once from beginning to end.

This is useful for playing jingles and effect sounds, for example.

Pause

Each press alternately plays and pauses. Playback stops at the end of the le.

Press and hold (for 2 seconds) to return to the beginning.

This is useful for interrupting to add commentary during SOUND PAD playback.

Loop

Each press alternately plays and stops. Playback will loop until stopped.

This is useful for playing background music, for example.

Hold

While pressing, loop playback will continue. When released, playback will stop.

This is useful for playing effects for just the time desired.

Changing bank names

The default names of the SOUND PAD banks, which are “BANK A” – “BANK D”, can be changed.

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap .

Change the bank as necessary (

page 42).

Input the bank name.

See “Character input screen” on page 16 for details about character input.

Managing les

Manage les on the File List Screen. On the File List Screen, a list of the audio les on the SD card is

shown, and les can be selected, combined and deleted.

NOTE

• Audio les that are not in the P8_Multitrack or P8_Settings folders will be shown.

•

Individual channel recording les will not be shown in the list, and cannot be edited on the

•

The

built-in sounds will only be shown on the File List Screen if they have been assigned to SOUND

PAD buttons.

• When the File List Screen is open, the channel input signals and sounds played when SOUND PAD

buttons are pressed will stop being output from the

Tap on the Home Screen.

This opens the File List Screen.

File name

Tap to open the editing screen for the selected le where it

can be played (

page 37) and edited ( page 55).

The creation date and time is shown below the le name.

File length

Play button

Tap to start and stop

playback.

Favorite mark

Tap to add/remove as a

favorite

This will be highlighted if

added.

File icon

This can be changed.

(

page 58)

Delete les. ( page 50)

Combine multiple les into one.

( page 52)

Activate USB le transfer mode. ( page 72)

Sort category selection buttons

Tap to sort the les in that order.

•

File creation date/time order

•

Favorites/others

•

File name order

•

Icon order

Tapping the same button alternates between ascending and

descending order.

Scrollbar

Slide this bar to scroll the

list.

Sliding the list itself will also

scroll it.

■

File icons

The following default icons are shown for audio les.

File type Icon

File recorded by the

Episode le that is a combination of multiple les

WAV le saved on the SD card from an outside

source

Built-in

sound

MP3 le

File other than WAV or MP3

Deleting les

Unneeded les can be deleted.

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap .

Tap one or more les that you want to delete.

Check marks will appear on

selected les.

Tap .

Tap to clear the selection and return to the File List Screen.

Tap Delete.

The selected le will be deleted, and the File List Screen will reopen.

Select Cancel to cancel deletion.

Combining multiple les into one in specic order

Multiple les can be combined to create one le for distribution.

Regular openings and endings can be added to episodes, and short sound effects can be inserted for

scene changes between conversations.

Audio le for

opening

Recorded

conversation 1

Audio le for scene

change

Recorded

conversation 2

Audio le for

ending

Combination example

■

File format overview

Audio les in the following formats can be combined.

• Format: WAV

• Sample rate: 44.1 kHz

• Bit rate: 16/24-bit

• Mono/stereo

NOTE

• When combining les, the names of unsupported les will be gray and they will not be selectable or an

error pop-up message will appear when one is selected.

• Some les that are not supported when combining can be selected on the File List Screen and

converted to a compatible le format in advance. After conversion, such les can be combined.

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap .

Tap the les to be combined.

The selected les are shown

in the order that they will be

combined into one le. The

leftmost le will be the rst.

Tap

to cancel a

selection.

Press and hold an icon and

then slide it to move it. A

vertical line will show the

input position.

NOTE

• The same le can be selected multiple times.

• If the selected les cannot all be shown on the screen, slide the bottom of the screen left and right to

scroll through them.

• Up to 20 les can be combined at once. When 20 les have been selected, the names of all les will

become gray and unselectable on the File List Screen.

Tap .

Tap to cancel combining les and return to the File List Screen.

Tap Combine.

Name of the combined

le

Select Cancel to cancel combining.

Tap Close.

A new episode le that combines the selected les into one will be created, and the File List Screen

will reopen.

Combined le

Editing les

The

can be used to edit the podcast stereo le that is a mix of all channels.

■

File format overview

Files with the following formats can be edited.

• Format: WAV

• Sample rate: 44.1 kHz

• Bit rate: 16/24-bit

• Mono/stereo

NOTE

• Individual channel les cannot be edited.

•

If a le is not compatible with the

, its name will be gray on the File List Screen and it will not be

selectable or an error pop-up message will appear when it is selected.

•

Files that are not compatible with the

but can be converted will appear on the File List Screen. When

they are selected, they can be converted to a compatible le format. Select the le after conversion.

• After the sample rate of a le has been converted to 44.1 kHz, “_441” will be added to the end of the le

name.

• After a le has been converted from MP3 to WAV, it will have the same name.

• A new le will be created during conversion, so the original le will remain.

On the File Editing Screen, the waveform of the audio le is shown and the following operations are

possible.

• Change icon ( “Changing icons” on page 58)

• Cut unnecessary parts ( “Cutting unnecessary parts (trimming)” on page 59)

• Divide le ( “Dividing les” on page 61)

• Add fade-in/out ( “Adding fade-ins and outs” on page 63)

• Add background music ( “Adding music and other background sound” on page 66)

• Apply loudness normalization ( “Optimizing podcast volume (loudness normalization)” on page 69)

• Convert to MP3 ( “Converting les to MP3 format” on page 71)

• Change le name ( “Changing le names” on page 57)

• Add to favorites ( “Opening the File Editing Screen” on page 56)

• Delete le ( “Opening the File Editing Screen” on page 56)

• Assign to SOUND PAD button ( “Assigning audio les from the File Editing Screen” on page 45)

Opening the File Editing Screen

Tap on the Home Screen.

This opens the File List Screen.

Tap the le you want to edit.

This opens the File Editing Screen.

Mark

Tap to move to the mark position on the

position display bar.

Marks can also be added and removed

while editing. (

page 40)

Waveform zoom in/out buttons

This zooms in on the

waveform.

This makes precise

editing easier.

This zooms out from

the waveform. This is useful

for checking the entire

waveform.

Change the le name.

( page 16)

Press to open these editing screens.

Cut unnecessary parts ( page 59)

Divide les ( page 61)

Fade-in/out ( page 63)

Add background music ( page 66)

Even out volume ( page 69)

File name

Waveform display

Playback position bar

This shows the playback

and editing positions. The

elapsed time is shown above

the bar.

Slide the bar or tap the

waveform to move the

playback position.

Change the icon. ( page 58)

Tap to add/remove as a favorite. This will be

highlighted if added.

Tap this and Delete to delete the le.

Convert to MP3 ( page 71).

Assign to SOUND PAD ( page 45).

NOTE

When the File Editing Screen is open, the channel input signals and sounds played when SOUND PAD

buttons are pressed will stop being output from the

Changing le names

When les are recorded on the

, they are named with the recording start date and time. These names

can be changed later. Only the names of les that have been recorded on the

can be changed.

Open the editing screen for the le with the name you want to change ( “Opening the File Editing

Screen” on page 56).

Tap .

Input the le name.

See “Character input screen” on page 16 for details about character input.

Changing icons

The le icon that is shown on the File List Screen and File Editing Screen can be changed.

The SOUND PAD buttons light with the same colors as the le icons.

Open the editing screen for the le with the icon you want to change ( “Opening the File Editing

Screen” on page 56).

Tap .

Change the icon.

Change the icon color.

Change the icon.

A check mark appears on the

selected icon.

Tap Close.

Cutting unnecessary parts (trimming)

Unnecessary parts of les can be cut.

Open the editing screen for the le that you want to trim ( “Opening the File Editing Screen” on

page 56).

Tap .

Slide cut points A and B to set them, and tap .

Parts before cut point A and after cut point B (shown in gray) will be deleted.

Cut point A Cut point B

Tap to cancel trimming.

HINT

• Files can be edited while they are played. See “Playing recordings on the Home Screen” on page 37

for playback procedures.

• Tap

to zoom the waveform display, enabling precise setting of the points.

Tap Save.

Tap to add a check to create a new le after trimming

(and keep the untrimmed le as is).

Select Cancel to cancel trimming.

Tap Close.

HINT

• If the original le has marks, mark data will be retained in the le after trimming.

• If a new le is created after trimming, “_TRIM” will be added to the end of the le name.

Dividing les

Files can be split where desired.

Open the editing screen for the le you want to divide ( “Opening the File Editing Screen” on page

56).

Tap .

The le will be divided at the position on the playback position bar.

Set the le division points, and tap .

File division point

Tap to cancel division.

■

Setting le division points

Slide to set the le division point.

Tap a mark to set it as the le

division point.

Tap a point on the waveform

to set the le division point

there.

HINT

• Files can be edited while they are played. See “Playing recordings on the Home Screen” on page 37

for playback procedures.

• Tap

to zoom the waveform display, enabling precise setting of the points.

Tap Save.

Tap to add a check to create new les after division

(and keep the undivided le as is).

Select Cancel to cancel division.

Tap Close.

HINT

• If the original le has marks, mark data will be retained in the les after division.

• After division, the le created from before the division point will have “_A” added to the end of the le

name, and the le created after the division point will have “_B” added.

Adding fade-ins and outs

The volume can be gradually raised from silence at the beginning of a le (fade in) and gradually lowered

to silence at the end of a le (fade out).

Fade-ins and fade-outs can even be set in the middle of a le.

Fade in

Open the editing screen for the le to which you want to add a fade in ( “Opening the File Editing

Screen” on page 56).

Tap .

Slide the fade-in frame to set the desired range, and tap .

Fade-in range

The fade in will occur over this time.

Tap to cancel adding a fade-in.

HINT

• The le can be played to check the fade-in. See “Playing recordings on the Home Screen” on page 37

for playback procedures.

• Tap

to zoom the waveform display, enabling precise setting of the points.

Tap Save.

Tap to add a check to create a new le with the fade-in effect

(and keep the le without the effect as is).

Select Cancel to cancel adding a fade-in.

Tap Close.

HINT

If a new le is created after adding a fade-in, “_FADEIN” will be added to the end of the le name.

Fade out

Open the editing screen for the le to which you want to add a fade out ( “Opening the File Editing

Screen” on page 56).

Tap .

Slide the fade-out frame to set the desired range, and tap .

Fade out range

The fade out will occur over this time.

Tap to cancel adding a fade-out.

HINT

• The le can be played to check the fade-out. See “Playing recordings on the Home Screen” on page

37 for playback procedures.

• Tap

to zoom the waveform display, enabling precise setting of the points.

Tap Save.

Tap to add a check to create a new le with the fade-out effect

(and keep the le without the effect as is).

Select Cancel to cancel adding a fade-out.

Tap Close.

HINT

If a new le is created after adding a fade-out, “_FADEOUT” will be added to the end of the le name.

Adding music and other background sound

Background music (BGM) can be added to audio les.

Use a computer beforehand to store the audio le to be used for BGM on the SD card in any directory

other than the P8_Multitrack and P8_Settings folders. ( “Transferring les to a computer, smartphone or

tablet” on page 72)

■

File format overview

Select an audio le with the following format for BGM.

• Format: WAV

• Sample rate: 44.1 kHz

• Bit rate: 16/24-bit

•

Mono/stereo

NOTE

• The currently selected le cannot also be added as BGM. The le name will appear gray.

• If a le is not compatible as BGM, its name will be gray and it will not be selectable or an error pop-up

message will appear when it is selected.

• Some les that are not supported as BGM can be selected on the File List Screen and converted to a

compatible le format in advance. After conversion, such les can be used as BGM.

Open the editing screen for the le to which you want to add BGM ( “Opening the File Editing

Screen” on page 56).

Tap .

Tap the le to add as BGM.

Set the area where the BGM will be added, adjust its volume, and tap .

Slide left and right to set the area

where BGM is added.

Slide up and down to set the BGM volume.

The added BGM will play repeatedly

within the set range.

Tap to cancel adding BGM.

HINT

• The le can be played to check the effect of adding the BGM. See “Playing recordings on the Home

Screen” on page 37 for playback procedures.

• During le playback, only the BGM volume can be changed.

• Tap

to zoom the waveform display, enabling precise setting of the points.

Tap Save.

Tap to add a check to create a new le after adding BGM

(and keep the le without BGM as is).

Select Cancel to cancel adding BGM.

Tap Close.

HINT

If a new le is created with BGM, “_BGM” will be added to the end of the le name.

Optimizing podcast volume (loudness normalization)

The loudness level of the entire le can be analyzed and the volume automatically optimized for

podcasting.

Open the editing screen for the le for which you want to optimize the volume ( “Opening the File

Editing Screen” on page 56).

Tap .

Tap to cancel loudness normalization.

Tap Save.

Tap to add a check to create a new le after loudness normalization

(and keep the le before loudness normalization as is).

Select Cancel to cancel loudness normalization.

Tap Close.

HINT

If a new le is created after loudness normalization, “_NORM” will be added to the end of the le name.

Converting les to MP3 format

WAV les recorded on the

can be converted to MP3 format for podcasts.

Open the editing screen for the le you want to convert to MP3 format ( “Opening the File Editing

Screen” on page 56).

Tap .

Tap Export.

Select Cancel to cancel MP3 conversion.

Tap Close.

HINT

After a le has been converted from WAV to MP3, it will have the same name.

Transferring les to a computer, smartphone or

tablet

The input signals of each channel and the sounds played by pressing the SOUND PAD buttons are

recorded as separate les. Various editing functions can be used on them after recording by transferring

them to a computer or other device. For example, their mix balance can be adjusted, effects can be added,

and lengths can be changed. After editing them, upload them to the podcasting service or server you are

using.

Transferring les to a computer, smartphone or tablet

Recorded les can be transferred to computers, smartphones and tablets.

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap .

This opens the USB FILE TRANSFER screen.

Use a USB cable to connect the

with a computer, smartphone or tablet ( “Connecting a

computer, smartphone or tablet by USB” on page 28).

When connecting a smartphone or tablet, turn Tablet Mode on. (

“Preparing to connect a

smartphone or tablet” on page 29)

Use the computer or other device to transfer the necessary les.

NOTE

• When the USB FILE TRANSFER screen is open, other functions and buttons cannot be used. Moreover,

the channel input signals and sounds played when SOUND PAD buttons are pressed will stop being

output from the

• The USB FILE TRANSFER screen can also be opened from the Home Screen by tapping

to open

the SD CARD screen, and tapping .

folder and le structure

When recording with the

, folders and les are created on SD cards in the following manner.

Root

2020_0101_0000.WAV

2020_0101_0010.WAV

MIC1.WAV

2020_0101_0000.ZWV

MIC2.WAV

MIC3.WAV

MIC4.WAV

MIC5.WAV

PHONE.WAV

SOUND_PAD.WAV

2020_0101_0024.WAV

P8_Multitrack 2020_0101_0000

2020_0101_0010

2020_0101_0024

P8_Settings

MIC6.WAV

USB.WAV

2020_0101_0010.ZWV

2020_0101_0024.ZWV

P8SETTING.ZSF

(Stereo le for podcasting)

(Mono le recording of signals from INPUT 1)

A folder with the same name as the stereo le for podcasting will be created,

and recording les for each track will be saved in it. (This happens only if

Keep Track Files is set to Original Data or With Tone & Comp (

page 79).)

(Mono le recording of signals from INPUT 2)

(Mono le recording of signals from INPUT 3)

(Stereo le recording of signals from smartphone connection jack)

(Mono le recording of signal from INPUT 6)

(Stereo le recording of signals from USB)

(Stereo le recording of SOUND PAD signals)

(

settings backup le)

These les can be used for podcasting.

These are separate les for each channel and the

SOUND PAD sounds. These can be edited on a

computer or other device.

(Mono le recording of signals from INPUT 4)

(Mono le recording of signal from INPUT 5)

(

Waveform display data of stereo les for podcasting

)

This data is for showing the waveforms used

during editing.

Modifying the date and time

The date and time are stored in recorded les, and the date and time recording started are used in the

le name. Having the correct date and time set is helpful when looking for les, for example, by allowing

content to be identied by names.

Tap the date and time display ( ) on the Home Screen.

Tap and to set the Year, Month, Day, Hour, and Minute.

Changing the touchscreen display language

The language used on the touchscreen can be changed.

Tap the date and time display ( ) on the Home Screen.

Tap the language to be shown on the touchscreen.

Setting the battery type

Set the type of battery used correctly so that the amount of remaining battery charge can be shown

accurately.

Tap the / / power button on the Home Screen.

Tap the type of battery used.

Setting Explanation

Alkaline Alkaline batteries

Ni-MH Nickel-metal hydride batteries

Lithium Lithium batteries

Adjusting the brightness of the touchscreen

The brightness of the touchscreen can be adjusted.

Tap the / / power button on the Home Screen.

Slide to adjust the brightness of the touchscreen.

HINT

Double-tap the slider or the bar to reset it to the default value.

Using noise reduction

Noise Reduction can be turned on or off.

When multiple mics are being used to record sound, the noise reduction function of the

suppresses

background noise to a constant level by automatically reducing the levels of the mic inputs not being

used by people.

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap the ON/OFF button to turn Noise Reduction on or off.

Setting recording le types

The types of les recorded to the SD card can be set.

The options include recording only a stereo mix of all the inputs or also simultaneously recording

separate les for each channel (mic, USB and smartphone inputs, and SOUND PAD sounds).

Various editing functions can be used on separate les after recording by transferring them to a computer

or other device. For example, their mix balance can be adjusted, effects can be added, and lengths can be

changed.

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap the recording le type setting.

Setting Explanation

Off Only record stereo les for podcasting.

Original Data

In addition to stereo les for podcasting, individual les are also recorded for

each channel. The individual les for each channel are recorded before being

affected by the fader, Tone, Comp/DeEss and other adjustments.

With Tone & Comp

In addition to stereo les for podcasting, individual les are also recorded for

each channel. The individual les for each channel are recorded before faders, but

after being affected by the Tone, Comp/DeEss and other adjustments.

NOTE

See the mixer block diagram for how effects are applied to individual channel recording les for different

settings. ( “Mixer block diagram” on page 93)

Testing SD cards

SD cards can be tested to conrm whether they can be used with the

A quick test can be done in a short amount of time, while a full test examines the entire SD card.

Conducting a quick test

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap .

Tap Quick Test, and then tap Execute.

The card performance test will start. The test should take about 30 seconds.

The result of the test will be shown when it completes.

NOTE

Even if a performance test result is "OK", there is no guarantee that writing errors will not occur. This

information is just to provide guidance.

HINT

Tap

to cancel a test while it is being executed.

Conducting a full test

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap .

Tap Full Test, and then tap Execute.

The approximate

amount of time

required for the test will

be shown.

The card performance test will start.

The result of the test will be shown when it completes.

If the Access Rate Max reaches 100%, the card will fail (NG).

NOTE

Even if a performance test result is "OK", there is no guarantee that writing errors will not occur. This

information is just to provide guidance.

HINT

Tap

to cancel a test while it is being executed.

Formatting SD cards

Format SD cards for the

to maximize their performance.

Before using SD cards that have just been purchased or that have been formatted on a computer, they

must be formatted by the

. Be aware that formatting an SD card will delete all data, including les

assigned to SOUND PAD buttons, on it.

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap .

Tap Format.

This formats the card.

Select Cancel to cancel formatting.

Using SD cards to back up and load settings

Settings related to the inputs and outputs of each channel, SOUND PAD functions, recording and power

can be backed up on SD cards. Backing up frequently used settings can be useful.

Backing up

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap .

Tap Save to SD card.

If a backup le already exists on the SD card, tap Save.

Tap Cancel to cancel backing up.

Tap Close.

The current settings are now backed up on the SD card

NOTE

• Only one set of settings can be backed up to an SD card. If a backup le already exists on a SD card, it

will be overwritten and the old settings will be deleted.

• The following items will not be backed up.

Channel fader positions, PHONES, USB OUT and SPEAKER OUT knob positions, DATE & TIME,

LANGUAGE and Tablet Mode settings, and SOUND PAD le assignments

Loading backup settings

Tap on the Home Screen.

Tap .

Tap Load from SD card.

Tap Load.

Tap Cancel to cancel loading backup settings.

NOTE

Loading gain settings could cause sudden output of loud sounds. Always lower the faders and knobs

before loading settings.

Setting the automatic power off function

When running on power from an AC adapter, the

will automatically turn off if it is unused for 10 hours.

To keep the power on at all times, turn off the AUTO POWER OFF function.

While pressing , set to ON.

Tap the ON/OFF button to change the setting.

Setting Explanation

ON The power will automatically turn off if it is not used for 10 hours.

OFF The power will not turn off automatically.

Tap .

This opens the Home Screen.

Restoring factory default settings

The

can be restored to its factory default settings.

While pressing , set to ON.

Tap Reset.

Tap Cancel to cancel resetting and open the Home Screen on the touchscreen.

Set to OFF.

This resets the

to its factory default settings. After "Goodbye See You!" appears on the

touchscreen, the power turns off.

NOTE

• A factory reset will overwrite all settings to their factory defaults. Be certain before using this function.

•

Make initial settings the rst time the power is turned on after the

has been restored to its factory

default state. (

“Making initial settings” on page 22)

Updating the rmware

The

rmware can be updated to the latest versions.

Download les for the latest rmware update from the ZOOM website (zoomcorp.com).

Follow the instructions in the “P8 Firmware Update Guide” on the

download page.

Troubleshooting

General

There is no sound or output is very quiet

• Check headphone connections and volumes. ( “Connecting headphones” on page 25)

• Check mic connections. (

“Connecting mics” on page 24)

• When using condenser mics, set the INPUT SELECT switches to

. ( “Connecting mics” on page 24)

• Conrm that

is unlit.

• Raise the faders for each channel to raise their levels, and conrm that their level meters are moving.

(

“Balancing the mix of channel levels” on page 35)

• Turn

for the output being used to adjust the output level. ( “Connecting” on page 24)

Recorded audio is too loud, too quiet or silent

• When using condenser mics, set the INPUT SELECT switches to . ( “Connecting mics” on page 24)

• Use the channel faders to raise the levels. (

“Balancing the mix of channel levels” on page 35)

• Conrm that the REC indicators are lit red.

Recording is not possible

• Conrm that the REC indicators are lit red.

• Conrm that the SD card has open space.

Proper recording is not possible/Stopping recording takes too much time

• SD cards can become worn out. Speed can decrease after repeated writing and erasing.

• Formatting the card with the

might improve this. ( “Formatting SD cards” on page 83)

• If formatting an SD card does not improve this, we recommend replacing the card. Please check the list

of cards that have been conrmed to work on the ZOOM website.

NOTE

This is not a guarantee of specic SD card recording performance for SDHC/SDXC cards that have been

conrmed to work. This list is provided as a guideline to help nd suitable cards.

Playback sound cannot be heard or is quiet

• Turn the PHONES knobs to adjust their volumes. ( “Connecting headphones” on page 25)

• Turn the SPEAKER OUT knob to adjust its volume. (

“Connecting powered speakers and other output

equipment” on page 31)

Audio les cannot be assigned to SOUND PAD buttons

• Check the format of the audio le to be assigned. ( “Assigning audio les to SOUND PAD buttons” on

page 43)

• If the audio le is stored on an SD card, store it in a directory outside the P8_Multitrack and P8_Settings

folders on the card.

SOUND PAD functions cannot be used

• Check the SOUND PAD levels. ( “Playing SOUND PAD buttons” on page 42)

• Conrm that les are assigned. (

“Assigning audio les to SOUND PAD buttons” on page 43)

Audio interface

Cannot select the

from a computer, smartphone or tablet (or

cannot use it as an interface)

• Conrm that the

is connected to the computer correctly. ( “Connecting a computer, smartphone or

tablet by USB” on page 28)

• Quit all the software that is connected to the

, and turn the

off and on again.

• Connect the

directly to a USB port on the computer or other device. Do not connect it through a USB

hub.

Sound skips during playback or recording

• If the audio buffer size of the software being used can be adjusted, increase the buffer size.

• Connect the

directly to a USB port on the computer or other device. Do not connect it through a USB

hub.

• Turn off power saving settings (including sleep functions) on the computer or other device.

Cannot play or record

• Conrm that the

is connected to the computer correctly. ( “Connecting a computer, smartphone or

tablet by USB” on page 28)

• Conrm that the

is selected in the settings of the computer being used.

• Conrm that

is set for input and output in the software being used.

• Set INPUT SELECT switch 6 to

• Quit all the software that is connected to the

, and disconnect and reconnect the USB cable connected

to the

Specications

Input and out-

put channels

Number of input channels Mic inputs: 6 (mono)

Smartphone input: 1 (stereo)

Number of output channels 2 (through 6 headphone and L/R speaker outputs)

Connectors Mic Type XLR jacks (2: HOT)

Input gain 0 – +70 dB

Input impedance 3 kΩ

Maximum input

level

+5 dBu (at 0 dBFS)

Phantom power +48 V

Smartphone

connection jack

Type TRRS mini jack

(4-contact/TIP: L, RING 1: R, RING 2: GND, SLEEVE: MIC)

Input impedance 3 kΩ

Maximum input

level

+2.5 dBu

USB USB Type-C (audio interface and mass storage functions)

•

Use a USB cable that supports data transfer. USB bus power is supported.

Headphones Type 3.5 mm stereo mini

Maximum output

level

20 mW + 20 mW (32Ω load)

Output impedance 27 Ω

Speaker outputs Type TRS jacks (balanced)

Maximum output

level

+5.5 dBu

Output impedance 320 Ω

AC adapter Power supply connector for AD-14

Recorder Format WAV 44.1kHz, 16-bit, mono/stereo

Recording media 4–32GB cards compatible with the SDHC specication (class 10 or higher)

64–512GB cards compatible with the SDXC specication (class 10 or

higher)

Audio interface 44.1kHz, 16-bit, 2-in/2-out

Frequency response −1.0 dB: 20 Hz – 20 kHz at 44.1kHz sampling rate

Equivalent input noise –124 dBu or less (IHF-A) at +70dB/150Ω input

Display 4.3" (480×272) full-color touchscreen LCD

Power 4 AA batteries (alkaline, lithium, or rechargeable NiMH)

AC adapter (ZOOM AD-14): DC 5 V/1 A (supports USB bus power)

Estimated continuous operation time using batteries Recording 44.1kHz/16-bit/4ch audio to SD card (when +48 V is OFF and

headphone impedance is 32 Ω)

Alkaline batteries: about 1.5 hours

NiMH batteries (1900 mAh): about 3 hours

Lithium batteries: about 5 hours

• The above values are approximate.

•

Continuous battery operation times were determined using in-house test-

ing methods. They will vary greatly according to use conditions.

Power consumption 5 W

External dimensions 295 mm (W) × 248 mm (D) × 61 mm (H)

Weight (unit only) 1.43 kg

• 0 dBu = 0.775 V

Mixer block diagram

48 V

MIC 1-5

GAIN A/D DC CUT

OFF AIR L

ON AIR L

ON AIR R

LEVEL METER

ON AIR

PHONE/BTA-2 OUT

REC DATA 1-5 to SD CARD

P8 MIXER BLOCK DIAGRAM

OFF AIR R

TONE

MUTE

DE-

ESSER

D/A

REC DATA MASTER L to SD CARD

REC DATA MASTER R to SD CARD

VOLUME

SOUND PAD

COMP

INPUT LEVEL METER

48 V

MIC 6/USB IN

GAIN

A/D

DC CUT

LEVEL METER

ON AIR

TONE/

TREBLE/

BASS

MUTE

DE-

ESSER

COMP

INPUT LEVEL METER

INPUT SEL

USB IN 2

USB IN 1

PHONE/BTA-2

LEVEL METER

ON AIR

TREBLE/

BASS

MUTE

A/D

DC CUT

LEVEL METER

ON AIR

PHONE L BACKUP

PHONE R BACKUP

VOLUME

USB IN 1 BACKUP

USB IN 2 BACKUP

USB OUT L to PC

USB OUT R to PC

KEEP TRACK FILES

REC DATA 7 L to SD CARD

REC DATA 7 R to SD CARD

REC DATA 8 L to SD CARD

REC DATA 8 R to SD CARD

KEEP TRACK FILES

DIGITAL

GAIN

DIGITAL

GAIN

LOW

CUT

LOW

CUT

USB IN 1 BACKUP

USB IN 2 BACKUP

USB

MIX MINUS

VOLUME

OUTPUT

LIMITER

D/A

PAD A-I L ch

PAD A-I R ch

LEVEL

FADER

D/A

PHONE L BACKUP

PHONE R BACKUP

ON AIR

HEADPHONE

OUTPUT LIMITER

REDUCTION

PAD A-I

SOUND PAD L

SOUND PAD R

MUTE

LIMITER

REC DATA 6 L to SD CARD

REC DATA 6 R to SD CARD

Only enabled

for on air

NOISE

REDUCTION

NOISE

REDUCTION

Only enabled

for on air

-1

OUTPUT LIMITER

REDUCTION

-1

1/2

ZOOM CORPORATION

4-4-3 Kanda-surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0062 Japan

zoomcorp.com

Z2I-4118-02