Zoom Podcast Digital Mixer/Recorder (L-8)

Another great product from Zoom
The Zoom LiveTrak L-8 has been a great addition to my audio setup. It’s packed with features and the build quality feels solid and professional. One of the best things about it is that you don’t need a computer to mix—everything can be done right on the unit itself. I’ve even run it off a portable battery bank, which makes it perfect for mobile or outdoor setups.There is a bit of a learning curve, especially if you’re new to mixers or audio gear in general. But if you’ve used this type of equipment before, it’s pretty intuitive once you get going. Overall, it’s a really versatile and well-designed mixer that gives you a ton of value for the price.Highly recommend it for podcasters, streamers, or anyone needing a flexible, portable audio solution.

Good for standalone, not the best for Computer interface
I bought this because I have experience using sound boards and was hoping to cut out some post production on my podcast sine I could adjust it before recording during sound test. For that it is a solid little board, great combination for running a podcast. If you are not used to sound boards it could be a little daunting and you would have to think hard between this and the Rodecaster Pro.Pro’s:Portable, battery capable.6 Dedicated Microphones2 Flexible channels for sound pads, phone inputs and suchMore control over recording set up because you can adjust individual channelsOn Board Recording via SD CardCon’s:Not the easiest to incorporate as a Interface for the computer.Micro USB instead of USB -CI am pretty much satisficed with this board, however they could use with 1 or 2 small upgrades.I have a Zoom Podtrak P4 that I bought before this. Great little device. It’s big brother could use the USB-C upgrade that it has. Micro USB is outdated. You also have to go to ZOOM’s website and down load drivers to use it with your computer (Which I did not find in the instructions, had to go to YouTube to find that out). I didn’t have to with the Podtrak 4, just a USB-C connection and I was in business.Upgrade the micro USB to USB-C so the computer can talk at a higher quality and send better sound back and I would upgrade this to a 5 Start review.Overall it is a good little board with a couple small imperfections. When I am doing in person interviews or a stand alone show I love it, just wish it interfaced with my computer a little more like it’s baby brother.

Súper bueno
Excelente producto

Buyers Remorse – Livetrak L-8
Its a brilliant little machine with so many pointless flaws that Zoom could easily change. I bought it, I liked it; then I saw a comparison video on youtube. You don’t even realize the many issues with this L-8 until you see what the other mixers offer in this category. In all honesty this unit has some great features but if you are going to drop hundreds of dollars check out what other mixers have (by comparison). There is a Pyle unit that has almost everything the L-8 has and its $250 less. Yes, I know, “but its Pyle”. I didn’t go with that brand, I’m just sharing others I found. I went with the Rodecaster Pro. Its a couple hundred more but watch a comparison on youtube between the Rodecaster and the L-8. The cord management (plugging in the back vs the top) is worth choosing another option (for this reason alone). The best reason to go with the Rode is all the digital processing that comes along with the Rode (limiter, compressor, etc…) The best thing about the L-8 is the EQ that is customizable on every channel. -There is no EQ on the Rode. If you are using different mics (shotgun along with a dynamic mic or ribbon) you can add bass to your shotgun or turn up the highs on a ribbon mic (on L-8). The final straw for me was that on the L-8 you can only turn phantom power on (for all channels) or off (on all channels). The Rode has phantom power PER CHANNEL. Also, the L-8 LED screen is overly complicated.You can’t have it all. There are pro’s and con’s with everything but take the time to watch some videos on both options. The EQ is the best feature on the L-8 but unless you watch some videos on other mixers you won’t actually know all that you are missing.

This is a dream device for podcasters and small bands. This is a mixer and recorder rolled into one portable device that runs on batteries or even power banks. All that backed by Zoom quality. Record/live stream/mix and find out more possibilities on the road.

I produce podcasts for a living – at work we have the “looks like a death star super sexy looking” originator of the “podcast recorder” market. I’ve been using that beautiful piece of hardware since not long after it was released. When I need to buy a podcast recorder for my home studio, I choose the Zoom LiveTrak L-8.1. Audio is great.2. Mic pre-amps are classic Zoom (and the pads are nice)3. You can record ONLY the tracks you want to4. You can see settings “at a glance” (no menu surfing during operation)5. Getting 2.25 AA batteries recording on 4 channels with dynamic mics6. Headphones have separate mixes (seriously? so good)7. Seven mixes (“scenes”) – show presets!8. You can manage the pads internally.9. Did I mention you can run it on AA batteries or USB power pack10. When connected to a computer, it’s a very capable audio interface11. The audio out from the XLR is very good12. AA batteries…I mean…record walking down the street (awkward) or front steps (cool)13. Light14. Almost $300 cheaper than competitors?!!?You’ve probably noticed I love it. I do. That said, cons, light means plastic, but it doesn’t feel cheap. That’s about it.