Zoom F8n Pro Multitrack Field Recorder, 8 Inputs, 10 Tracks, 32-Bit Float

Practical tips

With eight inputs and 32-bit float recording, the Zoom F8n Pro gives location crews room to capture several sound sources while keeping gain adjustment straightforward. Record dialogue, ambience and effects on separate tracks for a film shoot, then use the recordings in post-production. If you need more than a simple stereo capture, its 10-track format supports a more detailed recording workflow. It can also connect to a computer as an audio interface, making it useful for recording and streaming in a studio or live setup.

For location work, route inputs to outputs to suit the setup, and monitor tracks through headphones before or after the fader. The high-pass filter can help reduce wind and background noise, while phase inversion and optional input or output delays provide further signal control. Use the internal timecode for synchronised production work, or connect an external timecode generator. The recorder can capture to two SD, SDHC or SDXC cards at the same time, for a second recording or a split-card workflow.

Strengths

The F8n Pro combines dual A/D converter stages with professional microphone preamps and 32-bit float recording, so the recording workflow does not depend on setting preamp gain in the usual way. This is particularly useful when sound levels vary between takes or sources. With eight separate inputs and 10 tracks, you can keep a complex production organised for editing rather than relying on a two-channel mix.

It also works beyond field recording. Connect it to a computer over USB to send inputs individually to a DAW or streaming software while recording to SD card. In this mode, it functions as an 8-in/4-out audio interface, with sampling rates up to 32-bit float/96 kHz. Bluetooth connection with the F8 Control app lets you monitor signals and adjust levels from a compatible mobile device.

Highlights

The recorder supports BWF-compatible WAV recording at up to 32-bit resolution and 192 kHz. Its lockable XLR/TRS combo inputs accommodate microphone and line-level sources, while TA-3 main outputs, mini-jack sub outputs and a separate headphone output provide options for monitoring and connecting other equipment. A backlit 2.4-inch colour display and illuminated transport controls are practical when working on location in changing light.

For spatial audio projects, Ambisonics mode provides A-to-B decoding and linked gain control for capturing audio intended for VR, AR and other immersive formats. Compared with a basic stereo recorder, the F8n Pro is designed for workflows where multiple sources need their own tracks and timecode synchronisation matters, for a film scene, that can mean recording dialogue and surrounding sound separately for later editing.

What to clarify

Can it record and stream at the same time? Yes. When connected to a computer as an audio interface, it can send inputs to DAW or streaming software while recording tracks to SD card.

How many sources and tracks can it handle? It has eight separate inputs and records up to 10 tracks, giving you room to keep multiple production sources distinct.

Can it record spatial audio? Yes. Its Ambisonics mode supports A-to-B decoding and balanced gain linking for spatial audio capture.

Should you buy it?

Choose the Zoom F8n Pro when a production calls for portable multitrack recording, timecode support and flexible connections to cameras, headphones or a computer. Its eight inputs, 10 tracks and simultaneous recording and streaming options make it well suited to location sound, live music, streaming and sound-design work where separate sources need to remain useful in post-production.