This ultra-compact, multitrack field recorder offers 32-bit float technology for distortion-free dynamic range, and up to 14 tracks (inc. backup recordings) of simultaneous recording for professional and enthusiast applications on set and in the field. Slide it in a sound bag, sling it over your shoulder, or mount it to a camera; the F6 packs quantity and quality into a rugged frame that's more than ready for filmmaking, production/location sound mixing, sound effects recording, and electronic news gathering (ENG).
Zoom F6 has six XLR-inputs and features the same very low noise-floor preamps found in the Zoom F8n (−127 dBu EIN). There is a line-out, a headphone output with a volume wheel and timecode in/out. Powering the Zoom F6 is easy, given all the options the unit offers: the F6 can either be powered by four AA batteries, USB-C or an L-Series battery, for which their is a built-in mount on the unit’s backside. The front of the unit is dominated by six faders, a tiny yet informative LCD and three main buttons to control recording and playback. The unit can also be connected to Zoom’s Bluetooth adapter and will work with Smartphone app interface as well as Zoom’s F-Control panel.
Whether you need long-duration stereo recording for an interview, redundant capture of multi-mic setups for a video shoot, or Ambisonics sound files for virtual reality and 360-audio projects, the F6 has the modes, resolutions, and media support to handle your crucial audio tasks. You can feel confident using it as your main recorder, a USB audio interface for your dedicated computer rig, or a backup unit for added safety.
32-BIT FLOAT RECORDING
In the field, fluctuating dynamics can prove challenging. Loud sounds can cause clipping and quiet sounds can get lost in the noise. Zoom F6's dual A/D converters and 32bit recording, instead of standard 24bit, makes setting levels and digital clipping a thing of the past.
- The ZOOM F6 Field Recorder uses 32-bit float recording with dual A/D converters to capture both explosive and subtle sounds at full audio quality – without ever needing to adjust gain!
24-bit vs 32-bit Audio Recording
With the Zoom F6 Multi-track recorder, Zoom decided to address the inherent problem with 24-bit audio: louder volumes will be recorded at better quality than lower volumes. In practice this results in a situation you might have experienced before:
You record at a set gain level, and then the person starts whispering. Now you’d have to raise the gain, introducing noise.
Thanks to Zoom F6's 32-bit recording this is no longer an issue. 32-bit recording ensures everything is recorded at the same quality level, no matter the volume, due to the immense dynamic headroom.
On the other end of the spectrum, clipping 32-bit audio recordings is really hard to achieve - even if you tried to do it on purpose.
With 32-bit audio, if something clips on output then you can still bring it back down in post-production - similar to how highlight recovery works with RAW video: the spectrum of data recorded is much larger than the available output range, so you can push the signal around more easily.
STUDIO SOUND ANYWHERE
The new F6 Multitrack Field Recorder from Zoom provides creators the power of a studio wherever they need it.
The F6 boasts a slew of recording modes and resolutions to choose from—record all six inputs at a maximum resolution of 192 kHz in 24-bit linear or 32-bit float, or (thanks to Zoom's dual-path A/D converters) record them simultaneously in at up to 96 kHz in 24-bit and 32-bit float while printing a stereo mix.
Maximize portability by recording directly to an SD/SDHC/SDXC card (available separately) for up to 512GB of storage space. Select MP3 format if you're only recording the stereo mix and really need extended time and minimal file size. Using the BWF-compliant WAV format for uncompressed audio quality and industry-standard file compatibility, you can run the F6 in 6-track mode (six inputs recorded in 24-bit or 32-bit float), or 14-track mode (six inputs recorded in 24-bit and 32-bit float, plus a stereo mix). Or select Ambisonics mode to capture four channels of Ambisonics-compatible audio and have two channels to spare for traditional mics.
Alternatively, use the F6 as a 6-in/4-out USB 2.0 audio interface at up to 24-bit / 96 kHz. Connect it to your computer, launch your preferred audio recording program, then enjoy the combination of the F6's premium mic preamps and A/D converters, plus the familiarity and features of your favourite software. For safe, redundant recording at up to 48 kHz, it is possible to operate the F6 as an audio interface while recording to an SD card.
- A 1.54” full-colour backlit LCD with monochromatic mode gives you full visibility night and day.
- Record, Stop, Pause and Play transport controls are front and centre for easy access in the field.
- Each input has a dedicated level control knob.
Six locking Neutrik 3-pin XLR Inputs with Professional-grade Pre-Amps
The Zoom F6 Field Recorder is equipped with six professional-grade preamps and can accommodate all manner of condenser microphones as well as balanced line-level signals via six locking Neutrik 3-pin XLR inputs. Featuring a super-low noise floor (-127 dBu EIN), high gain (up to 75 dB), and selectable mic/line levels for each input, the F6 is built for location sound.
Rugged
Rugged enough to withstand the most demanding scenarios and small enough to fit into the tightest spaces, the F6 will become your go-to recorder.
Timecode In/Out
Keep your tracks perfectly synced even when you power down for lunch. On or off, the F6’s Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO) generates time code at 0.2 ppm accuracy.
Monitor What Matters
Use the F6 Multi-track Recorder and your headphones to keep tabs on your tracks pre- or post-fader. Check levels, route signals to the left or right and set alert tones for battery and recording status.
Advanced Look-Ahead Hybrid Limiters
When recording in 24-bit, the F6 uses advanced look-ahead hybrid limiters to provide overload protection. By adding a 1-millisecond delay, the limiters “look ahead” anticipating clipping before it’s recorded.
Fine-tune your mix
The Zoom F-Control (FRC-8) gives you more flexibility in the field. With 60 mm faders and controls for trim, pan and track-arming, the FRC-8 is a must-have for any professional filmmaker.
*The F-Control is sold separately.
iOS Wireless Control
The F6’s F Control APP lets you monitor signals, adjust levels, trigger transport controls, enter metadata and more from your iPhone or iPad via Bluetooth.*
*Optional BTA-1 required
Zoom AutoMix
Zoom AutoMix lets you keep your eyes on the action by automatically adjusting the levels of your mix to reduce ambient sound.
The Zoom F6 Recorder's Ambisonics mode offers precision A-to-B decoding and balanced gain linking, enabling you to capture professional spatial audio for VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), and more. Even while using the first four channels for Ambisonics recording, you can utilize channels 5-6 for other signals such as boom and lav mics. Download the free Zoom Ambisonics Player software to access user-friendly decoding and editing functions for your 360-audio.
