zoom r8 portable mixer

‘zoom r8’ portable recorder/interface/controller/sampler

measuring just 10 x 7.5 x 2 -inches (25.4 x 19 x 5 centimeters), the ‘r8‘ by japan based audio company zoom is a combination recorder, mixing interface and controller, and sampler and rhythm machine, designed as a portable alternative to the company’s ‘r24’.

the standalone device can be used as a recorder, capturing wo tracks simultaneously and storing up to eight tracks of audio at any one time as 24-bit/48kHz resolution WAV files. a built-in 8-pad sampler is usable in concert with the recording functions and permits live looping and time-stretching of tracks. audio waveforms are displayed on the small LCD panel for visual guidance in setting loop intervals.

the ‘r8’ comes preloaded with 472 preset drum sounds and includes 10 types of drum kits, permitting the programming of up to 511 custom beats using the device’s touch-sensitive pads. 500MB of drum loops are also included in a 2GB SD card.

when connected via USB to a computer, the ‘r8’ also functions as a tactile interface for mixing and mastering, preloaded with146 studio and mastering effects and 370 patches. compatible with a range of major DAWs (digital audio workstations), the 2-input/2-output device returns to the mixing process basic functionality like the ability to move multiple faders simultaneously, often lost or rendered difficult in increasingly digital-only mixing environments. the ability to set up to 100 markers simplifies navigation within tracks.

the ‘r8’ supports up to 32GB SDHC cards for a maximum of 100 track hours, further increasing the portability of the device. running off AC power or four AA batteries or USB, the machine is also compatible with other zoom products, such as a footswitch for foot control of recording and effect patches.

the ‘r8’ is currently available, retailing for 299 USD.

full frontal view