Zoom H8 – Versatile 12-Track Handy Recorder & USB Audio Interface

The Zoom H8 is tailored for musicians, podcasters, filmmakers and content creators who demand a robust all-in-one recording solution. With up to twelve simultaneous tracks, interchangeable input capsules, dedicated apps for podcasting, music and field recording, and full USB-audio-interface capability, it brings pro-level flexibility to any workflow.

Key Features

• Up to 12 simultaneous recording tracks: Record from multiple mics and inputs at once to capture live bands, podcast panels or multi-mic film setups.
• App-driven colour touchscreen interface (Podcast / Music / Field modes): Instantly switch workflows to match your project—whether it’s interview sound-beds, multi-track music or location audio capture.
• Interchangeable mic-capsule system: Swap input modules to suit your setup—from stereo X/Y mics to extra XLR channels or ambisonic options for immersive audio.
• Multiple input formats with phantom and plug-in power: Connect condenser mics, guitars, keyboards and more—all with dedicated gain knobs and-20 dB pads for loud sources.
• USB audio interface mode (up to 12-in / 2-out): Use the H8 as a multi-channel interface with your computer or iPad—ideal for livestreaming, DAW-tracking or podcasting setups.
• Pre-record, auto-record and stereo safety track functions: Capture audio before you hit record, trigger recordings automatically, and record a second lower-level stereo track to protect against clipping.

Customer Benefits

Whether you’re capturing a live rehearsal, recording a round-table podcast or mixing sound on location, the H8 gives you the tools to stay focused on the creative side rather than the gear. The dedicated apps mean you don’t need to scroll through complicated menus just to record. The capsule system and multi-input design mean you’re ready for any mic or source. And if you need to switch to streaming or computer-based recording, the interface mode means you don’t need a separate device. With the H8, you get one recorder that adapts to your project.

Quick Specs

• Recording resolution: up to 24-bit / 96 kHz
• Simultaneous tracks: Up to 12 tracks
• Inputs: Four XLR mic inputs + two XLR/TRS combo inputs on main unit (with included capsule) — capsule system adds further flexibility
• Dimensions: 11.6 × 16.3 × 4.9 cm
• Weight: approx. 0.354 kg
• Power options: 4 × AA batteries (over 10 hours) or optional AC adapter / USB bus power

What’s in the Box

• Zoom H8 handheld recorder
• XYH-6 X/Y microphone capsule
• USB-A to USB-Micro-B cable
• Basic documentation

Use Cases / Ideal For

Ideal for mobile music production sessions, podcast panels and live-streaming, independent film sound capture, panel discussions and interviews, and location-based sound design where multiple microphones and sources need to be tracked simultaneously.

Compatibility

The H8 works with macOS, Windows and iPad (via USB interface) and integrates with DAWs and podcasting/streaming software. It supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards (up to 512 GB) for standalone recording and offers dedicated USB-audio interface modes for computer-based workflows.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• High track-count and flexible input architecture for complex recording setups
• Dedicated app modes simplify workflows for different recording scenarios
• Interchangeable capsule system expands the device’s functionality beyond the base unit

⚠️ Cons:

• Relatively bulky compared to ultra-compact recorders when handheld for long periods
• Only one headphone output — may require a splitter for multi-person monitoring in podcast setups

The Zoom H8 delivers professional-level recording, streaming and interface capabilities in a handheld form. If you need a flexible multi-input solution that can handle music, podcasts or location audio without switching devices, this is a strong choice.