Zoom F6 6-Input / 14-Track Multitrack Field Recorder

The F6 is designed to handle the reality of real-world dynamics. Since source levels can change unexpectedly, you need a system that can capture everything from pin-drop quiet to roaring loud without compromise or clipping. With 32-bit float resolution and dual-path A/D converters, the F6 delivers immense dynamic range to cover the audible spectrum with ease. Digital clipping is a thing of the past.

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.

Maximise 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.

The F6'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 utilise 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.

The F6 can accommodate all manner of condenser microphones as well as balanced line-level signals via six locking Neutrik 3-pin XLR inputs. Six studio-quality microphone preamps boasting massive gain (up to 75 dB) and ultra-low noise (-127 dBu EIN) ensure that your sound sources will be amplified with sonic accuracy. Select mic/line-level per input, apply 24 or 48 VDC phantom power per input, adjust each input via a dedicated level knob, and handle hot signal levels (up to +4 dBu in mic mode, or up to +24 dBu in line mode).

In 24-bit recording mode, the F6 utilises advanced look-ahead hybrid limiters to provide reliable protection against overloading the A/D converters. By adding a small delay of just one millisecond, the limiters are able to look-ahead at the input signal and anticipate clipping before it's recorded.

To use the F6 as a field mixer, simply connect its 3.5mm stereo line output into your camera, DSLR, mixer, or secondary recorder. Your audio mix will be fed through the unbalanced line, ready to be recorded.

With a transparent and high-output 100mW headphone amplifier tied to a 3.5mm stereo output, the F6 provides clean, efficient monitoring of pre- or post-fader levels and alerts for battery and recording status.

Whether you keep the F6 powered on all day, or shut it down during breaks, rock-solid sync with video cameras, master timecode clocks, or additional audio recorders will be maintained. Accurate synchronisation is made possible with the F6's high-end timecode features. A 3.5mm TRS mini jack is dedicated for timecode I/O, and a Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO) boasts super stable timecode accuracy to ±0.2 ppm. You can even jam sync the F6 when constant external timecode isn't present.

If you need extensive external control, Zoom has you covered. For fast and fluid hands-on remote control, the Zoom F-Control (available separately) is ideal. It features smooth 60mm faders, plus tactile controls for trim, pan, arming tracks, transport operations, and more.

For convenient wireless remote control from an iOS mobile device, connect a Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter (available separately), then use the free F-Control app to quickly monitor and tweak levels, operate transport controls, add metadata, and more.

To keep up with the pace of on-location production, the F6 offers several methods of powering. Operate it via four included AA batteries or a Sony L-Series type battery (available separately), power it through a USB Type-C connection, or plug it into a wall outlet with the Zoom AD-17 AC adapter (available separately). With up to 16.5 hours of battery life (AA lithium batteries, 16-bit / 48 kHz, 2-channel recording to SD card), you can rely on the F6 hour after hour.

A USB Type-C port on the F6 serves several functions. Use it to hook up a power source, or connect a computer for file backup or live audio streaming.

Day or night, view vital information such as audio levels, recording time, battery status, and more on the 1.54" full-colour backlit LCD, which also offers a monochromatic mode. Transport controls and navigation buttons are presented nearby for sound bag-friendly, hassle-free operations.

Let Zoom's AutoMix function simplify your job. This smart software automatically adjusts the levels of your mix to reduce the amount of ambient sound, so you can focus on capturing a well-balanced mix. Since you turn AutoMix on/off for each channel, you have complete control over where you want AutoMix to work.

The rugged build quality and compact size make the F6 an excellent choice for location recording on set and in the field. It's equally well suited for placement in an audio bag or a camera-mounted configuration.

Add metadata such as notes and track/scene names in BWF and iXML formats to easily catalog your files in preparation for loading them into your video or audio editing workstation. Make it a habit to make organisation and collaboration in post-production easy.

The F6 includes not only four AA batteries, but also a camera-mount adapter, and download codes for Cubase LE and WaveLab LE, ensuring that you can get started right away regardless of your workflow.