Zoom F6 Audio Recorder Review
Рет қаралды 202,017
Please consider signing up for our ZOOM F6 course over at school.learnlightandsound.com/p/zoom-f6
Index:
00:00 Intro
00:28 Major features overview
01:33 Demo 32-bit float recover clipped and under-gained audio in post
04:57 F6, MixPre II, and 888 Sound Samples
06:07 Features in detail
21:15 Who is the F6 for?
22:24 Who is the F6 NOT for?
22:52 F6 vs Sound Devices MixPre II
23:20 What the F6 has and MixPre II doesn’t
25:33 What the MixPre II has and F6 doesn’t
27:45 Summary
In today’s episode, we give you some audio samples from the new RODE NTG5 shotgun microphone and Zoom F6 recorder while we talk about the bebob micro cinema batteries. The headline feature of these batteries is that they are tiny relative to other cinema style batteries. They come in V-mount/V-lock or Anton Bauer Gold Mount. While they aren’t the cheapest cine batteries out there, they appear to be top quality and have some unique features like twist d-tap outputs, USB outputs, and an in-built flash light. But what is more interesting is that once the batteries have been used and their ability to hold a charge degrades, you can send them back to bebob and for about 1/2 the price of the original battery, they will put new cells in the battery. If you drop your battery and one of the physical parts break, they can be replaced.
#Zoom #F6 #Recorder
If you’d like to learn how to make great dialogue audio for your film and video projects, please have a look at my courses at school.learnlightandsound.com including processing dialogue audio in Adobe Audition and DaVinci Resolve/Fairlight, recording sound, how to use the Zoom F4, F8, and F8n, and how to get the most from the Sound Devices MixPre series of recorders.
Gear used or mentioned in this episode:
Zoom F6 Audio Recorder - B&H bhpho.to/2HE7HsT
Stereo to Mono 3.5mm Adapter to send timecode to Pocket 4K Camera - Amazon geni.us/hLjEY
Zoom F-Control Control Surface - B&H bhpho.to/2LCiYsV
Anker USB-C battery bank - Amazon geni.us/DguA6A
Zoom F8n Audio Recorder - B&H bhpho.to/2JvAnmj
Zoom F4 Audio Recorder - B&H bhpho.to/2Aplb5d
Sound Devices MixPre Audio Recorders - B&H bhpho.to/30hNyUj
Aputure Light Dome II Soft Box - B&H bhpho.to/2Osyx8j
Aputure C300D key light- B&H bhpho.to/2y38ga2
Aputure C120DII for slash of light on the back wall- B&H bhpho.to/2T7FtcR Amazon geni.us/deg3
Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K - B&H bhpho.to/2oeIXA1
Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4K - B&H bhpho.to/2JB7W5V
Tilta Half Cage for BMPCC 4K/6K - B&H bhpho.to/2WPkHli
Sigma ART 24-70mm f/2.8 EF Mount Lens - B&H bhpho.to/2kjsI2x Amazon geni.us/bhOWVlW
Take your films to the next level with music from Musicbed. Sign up for a free account to listen for yourself: geni.us/G7by
Copyright 2019 by Curtis Judd
Ethics statement: Some of the links above are Amazon.com, B&H Photo, or other affiliate links. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
@momchilyordanov8190 4 жыл бұрын
The + / - 60db recovery in the beginning was the most impressive thing I've ever seen lol
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Yes, impressive what they’ve achieved!
@markjob6354 4 жыл бұрын
Yeah, ditto. I wouldn't have thought this was possible, or it would be possible but sound like junk with a noticable noise floor.
@timbeaton5045 4 жыл бұрын
@@markjob6354 Me too! I think this way of recording is going to become a standard method among all audio recorder manufacturers. Wonder who will jump first!?
@timbeaton5045 4 жыл бұрын
What price Limiters, now? Almost pointless?
@MAMAvsGOD 4 жыл бұрын
FACTS. Can other Devices Achieve this?? Working in Studio this is Something I NEVER SEEN.
@geraldundone 4 жыл бұрын
Great video, Curtis! And thanks for the shout-out. 🤓🙏
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Gerald! Thanks for covering the audio interface aspects of the F6!
@MyOtheHedgeFox 4 жыл бұрын
Curtis, your style is incredible - from the short and succinct intro with the text-based channel intro and summary (both a rarity these days!) to the professional and practical delivery. Even if most of these devices cost far too much for me to even consider, I still await your every new notification. Sound capture, warm confidence, classy no-frills editing - there’s everything to strive for!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Wow, thanks MyO! That means a lot.
@EzzenzDK 4 жыл бұрын
Exactly - detailed, sharp and straight to the point - no silly jokes etc. just love your style too!!
@videosuperhighway7655 4 жыл бұрын
I agree. I skip those unprofessional reviewers on youtube especially when they start out with waaaaats up guuuys. Etc..
@fatheadvideollc 4 жыл бұрын
Curtis, first of all THANKS for your well done informational YT channel. I purchased the F6 for a short film I made a few weeks ago and it worked flawlessly in 32 bit for the barely audible young actor along with a scene with a lot of loud screaming, and crying. I purchased it based on your initial review of this great piece. THANK YOU and I am glad you have the reviews you do.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks and really glad to hear it’s working well. Those whisper to yelling situations can be rough, but much easier with this.
@spo5egy 4 жыл бұрын
You've just sold me on it twice!
@LearnLightAndSoundSessions 4 жыл бұрын
@@spo5egy 👍
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
*CORRECTION* F6 CAN record 32-bit Float at 192kHz. To do so, you must turn off the LR Mix and AutoMix and Limiters. *ALSO* recently found that many cameras record rather noisy audio when you feed audio from the F6's output to the camera's microphone input. I didn't have this issue with the BMPCC6K when I sent a line level signal but did have the issue with a Panasonic GH5 with a mic level signal. I have reported this issue to Zoom North America. AND, DaVinci Resolve now handles 32-bit float files.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Would be nice if it gave you a hint as to why 192kHz is grayed out when it is. Potential firmware update, Zoom? 😀
@FreeToUseSounds 4 жыл бұрын
@Zlatko Zlatev Hi Zlatko. If I am correct then you only change the fader (output) but not the gain if you have set it to 32 Bit.
@brianwyse5810 4 жыл бұрын
is it better than mix-pre?
@LangstoniusRex 4 жыл бұрын
@@jukarnariusIt does. I use the tone generator to set the levels on output when its plugged into cameras.
@JonRivero 4 жыл бұрын
@Zlatko Zlatev But only in 32 bits mode Isn`t?. I want this function on 24 bits mode with limiters. Zoom ¡It's annoying!
@mattgray128 4 жыл бұрын
Definitely one of the best pieces of kit I’ve ever used. Not worrying about gain makes one-man-crew operations so much easier. Been using this for weeks and I love it.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍
@JensLarsen Жыл бұрын
Great overview. Your channel and these detailed reviews really makes it easier to figure out what might work and what might not work. Thank you!!
@curtisjudd Жыл бұрын
👍
@johnbixby8305 4 жыл бұрын
Instantly subscribed. Curtis this is the most efficient and polished review I have ever seen on a piece of audio equipment... Flawless victory.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks John, really appreciate the feedback!
@markjob6354 4 жыл бұрын
Hi Curtis: I just wanted to take this opportunity and thank you for your very thorough and direct reviews and how to videos you do here on your KZfaq Channel. You are easy to listen to, easy to understand, and you have a great gifting to teach :) I learn so much from watching all your various reviews and analysis of audio and video products. These are the tools we are all using as film makers almost every day, and it's greatly appreciated. You are an important technical resource.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much, Mark. I really appreciate the feedback!
@markjob6354 4 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd No, thank You Curtis. You're a walking techno-encyclopedia of Digital video and audio production.
@markjob6354 4 жыл бұрын
@Curtis Judd - Have you done a review of the Atomos Sumo 19 ? I'm giving it some serious consideration for purchase.
@iancraig 4 жыл бұрын
What a great recording device. Love that dynamic range that it offers and you were able to rescuse the overblown and ‘underblown’ recordings!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍 pretty neat!
@PDU_Tutorials 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks CJ! That’s a great feature! Thanks for the MixPre comparison.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍
@philipbloom 3 жыл бұрын
great review Curtis. I just got mine and am wading though it. Love the 32 bit float!
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
Congrats on the new recorder, Philip! Contact me with any questions any time!
@TheGreyfoo 3 жыл бұрын
I just receently bought one of these (in Australia), based on your review. I love it! 32-bit, clipless audio is such a profound, incredible leap forward, and I can't thank you enough for bringing it to my attention. As a solo videographer, I'm certainly never going back! ... Of note, I found that - beyond just letting me set the perfect 'gain' in post, I was also able to apply some really extreme EQ to the 32-bit WAVs inside Adobe Premiere (a 20dB swing from -10dB to +10dB) without the usual appearance of coloring/ugliness/smearing I'd otherwise expect in a highly-processed sound. (I don't actually know if any of Adobe Premiere's EQs are specifically linear phase but doubt it). Or so it appeared to me, anyway: ... On the F6 I recorded 32-bit/48kHz, and just two days previously the H6 (24-bit/48kHz) - in the same theatre/space, same mic (NTG3). The space isn't acoustically treated for bass, so (coupled with the NTG3s low-midness), I have to apply a very strong EQ cut to lows, and boost to highs. I applied the same (massive) EQ to both recordings, and the 32-bit just SINGS. ... On top of that, Zoom knocked it out of the park with the power options. I bought an Atomos 2-pack and charger, with over 8 hours of run time on a single L-battery, which can be swapped out in mere seconds. I'm not going to miss AA batteries at all. Stupidly happy. ... Thanks again Curtis.
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for you insights, Greyfoo!
@PhotoMakers 4 жыл бұрын
Hi, Great review! thank you so much!!!! I couldn't see if the F6 show the actual gain for each volume knob. Imagine that you have 2 mics for stereo recording and you need perfectly "aligned" gains for both tracks. Does it offer this control or only on the visuals?
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Yes, you can link 2 or more channels together so that you can set their faders or trim with one control, thus ensuring they are at the exact same level.
@PhotoMakers 4 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd perfect!! Thank you so much for the clarification!!!!
@satsahota1765 4 жыл бұрын
Love your reviews Mr Judd. I’ve just ordered a mix pre 3 ii and your content helped so much researching which was best for my use. Thank you
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Sat and I hope the MixPre works well for you!
@ricardorgomez 4 жыл бұрын
THANK YOU for doing this video! Though when you initially spoke to these folks about the recorder, we all knew it was a matter of time when you'd review it. The look on your face when the words 'no gain' was used was priceless! I was surprised how small the unit really is and it seems like they made it that way for mobility. With the least amount of compromises. Being able to power it with a fairly normal battery bank and mountable under a camera on a tripod is impressive especially considering its performance. I think in the last 7 or so years, I've bought into a couple of online courses. I can figure it out and practice on my own. But I'll definitely be purchasing one of yours when the time comes. Your practical yet thorough approach to gear is first rate!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much Ricardo! Happy recording!
@makatron 4 жыл бұрын
Insane details, imagine in a decade when 48 bit recording is available so it can recover the file even after unplug the microphone 😅
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Hahaha!
@videosuperhighway7655 4 жыл бұрын
64bit it records the future. Lol
@CyrilleBoucanogh 2 жыл бұрын
Don't stop on 48, better 128 bits when you just stay at home watching your favourite movies while ZOOM shoots and edits and does all the video production for you 😅
@peterwiessenthaner5107 2 жыл бұрын
I wait also of this possibility with 48 bit recording 😅
@makatron 2 жыл бұрын
@@peterwiessenthaner5107 it'll just tap on your thoughts and provide a normalized track
@nobbystyles4807 4 жыл бұрын
my jaw nearly hit the floor on that audio recovery section. i was expecting some audible floor noise at least. i am absolutel buying one of these this week. i was going to get an h6 but heck..... this thing is a beast.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Good call - much better investment than the H6. :)
@ngocehgayabebas2118 3 жыл бұрын
Amazing. You answered every single comment. Well done Curtis, you have my respect
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you Ngoceh.
@matthewlee2957 4 жыл бұрын
Curtis, thanks for taking the time and sharing your thoughts. . . . . So appreciate it
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Matthew!
@VitinhoXXL 4 жыл бұрын
That "good bye" message sold me out :)
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
There’s nothing quite like a friendly piece of gear. 🤓
@BasicFilmmaker 4 жыл бұрын
Ha! You got an NTG3! Sweet! Do you have or are you doing an F6 course? Maybe you mention it later. Not all the way through the video yet. So far it’s awesome!! 👍
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
NTG3, finally added to the kit. Can finally cross that off the list. :) Yes, definitely planning a Zoom F6 course!
@dblbassted 11 ай бұрын
You've become my go-to for all things audio for video. Thank you!
@curtisjudd 11 ай бұрын
👍
@perspectivestudioscaribbea5899 4 жыл бұрын
Excellent comprehensive review Curtis, after viewing I feel as though if an F6 was in front of me I would know my way around it without any difficulty. Keep up the great work !
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks!
@riparianstudios 4 жыл бұрын
So what you're telling me is that this recorder could perfectly capture the sound of my head exploding while watching this demo, even with its sudden and percussive loudness.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Most likely, yes. 😀
@TonyBabarino 4 жыл бұрын
Bahahahahaha!!!
@kalpeshgandhi5176 4 жыл бұрын
Curtis Ju
@LangstoniusRex 4 жыл бұрын
Why am i watching this when i already have the zoom f6? (love it. just used it for a week on a web series)
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Hahaha! Glad to hear it’s working well for you!
@HeliumContent 4 жыл бұрын
You're trying to prevent buyer's remorse ;) Happens to all of us, man!
@LangstoniusRex 4 жыл бұрын
@@HeliumContent loooool. Maybe so. I will say, all this time later, the 32 bit float saved my arse when I stupidly tried to shoot three cameras at the same time _while_ running the sound. Screwed up the levels on some takes, didnt catch it on set. Was able to recover the tracks because i could raise the levels. moral of the story: find a crew! Oh and that 32 bit float feature is amazing :)
@HeliumContent 4 жыл бұрын
@@LangstoniusRex It's a game-changer - Sound Devices has also incorporated this into their Gen.II Mix-Pre models. It's a great time to be a filmmaker!
@emilybeth8224 3 жыл бұрын
My mind is blown within the first 2:30 minutes! The post-gain-editing has me stunned. Absolutely great review
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Emily. Happy recording!
@jwoolson 4 жыл бұрын
@Curtis Judd: Thank you for all your excellent work. Your gear reviews are all fantastic - clear, in-depth, and incredibly helpful.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Jonathan!
@roryonabike5863 4 жыл бұрын
Some people may be interested in knowing that B&H is selling the Zoom F6 and the original MixPre-6, which it has units of despite the introduction of version II, for the same price, US$650. That is $200 less than the price for a MixPre-6ii.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thank you Rory.
@roryonabike5863 4 жыл бұрын
What happens if one tries to use a wireless lav mike with the F6 set for 32 bit/dual converters?
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
The wireless system or lavalier mic are almost certainly going to be the dynamic range limiting factors.
@LordCaes 3 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd I am considering the F6 to record a panel discussion, 2 boomed NTG 5s as backup to 4 individual lavs. Are there wireless Lavs that will be able to take advantage of the 32bit, or would the Zoom F2 or Tentacle Sync Track E be a better option? Thank you in advance :-)
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
@@LordCaes Zaxcom makes wireless systems with a feature they call Neverclip. It does not use a 32-bit float wav file, but a proprietary format called MARF. It achieves the same thing but really works best with Zaxcom mixer/recorders and are very expensive - in a totally different league to the F6. Assuming you're not looking to spend that much money, I would say the F2 or Track E would be good options.
@LordCaes 3 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd Thanks very much!
@wezlam 4 жыл бұрын
Amazing as always. Loving the new intro too.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Wesley!
@jsebastianst 4 жыл бұрын
This pretty much answered all my questions about the F6, thanks for the great video!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
You’re welcome! 👍
@remektekmedia6641 4 жыл бұрын
Good review up to your usual high standard.I upgraded from a Zoom F8 to the F6 and loved it. However after a week I decided to swap to the MixPre-6 Mk ii. You've made an accurate comparison between the two, so I won't repeat them, but... However, I want to note that the 3.5mm Aux mic input on the MP range is really excellent, especially with the smaller units, when the user might be vlogging in the field, as you can plug in a 3.5mm mic that needs plug-in power, without resolving to a bulky XLR adaptor, like the Rode VXLR+. This is especially handy, for "quick and dirty" stereo location sound such as I might use on a holiday, when I can plug in a Rode Stereo Video MicPro. Point in favour of the F6, compared to the MixPre-3 or 6 Mk ii, is that its iOS App can produce a Sound Report. This is only available on the much more expensive MixPre-10 Mk ii. For me personally, the draw cards for the MixPre-6 Mk ii, were gain controls in 32 bit mode, 3.5mm stereo input, 1/4" line inputs and the user interface, however I also liked the F6, so much that I might buy it again if I needed the extra inputs, or get a new F8something, when 32 bit comes to the F8 range.
@roryonabike5863 4 жыл бұрын
Re your comment about sound reports, maybe check out Sound Devices’s free app WaveAgent if you aren’t already familiar with it. If you use Mac OS Catalina, note that Sound Devices is working on an update.
@remektekmedia6641 4 жыл бұрын
@@roryonabike5863 Thanks for that Rory. (what's you bike, BTW? - I am also a motorbiker). WaveAgent currently doesn't support 32 bit audio files(!!! DUH) and requires running on a Mac, so it is really a pain in the you know what for field use. In contrast the Zoom iOS App can create this in the field. Too bad about Android users, though. As SD provide Sound Report facility for the MixPre-10 using the WingMan App, I really think they should have that feature for the MixPre-3 and 6, after all it would not cost them anything and the SD products are hardly cheap so intentionally limiting this function seems to me contra productive.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
I think you capture my sentiment, too: it’s a tough choice. Both really are quite impressive.
@roryonabike5863 4 жыл бұрын
RemekTek Media Hi. Moto Guzzi V7 II. WaveAgent also runs in Windows, but as you say it doesn’t work in iOS. I agree about the WingMan app.
@SSingh-nr8qz 4 жыл бұрын
DAMN YOU! I was so proud of my H5...Then I saw this video LOL.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Hahaha! The H5 still holds its own. Happy recording!
@madeiraislander 4 жыл бұрын
and me the H4n Pro :C bad pre-gains though!! had to buy a fethead to fix that.
@savanaviolenta 4 жыл бұрын
You know that there is f8 right?
@swetrich 4 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this! So damn helpful. I super appreciate all the time and effort you put into videos like this. Aside from some of the headphone monitoring differences, this fits my needs so much better than any other device as I do a lot of solo or run and gun type work with occasional short films and web series where I'm doing everything. Also for corporate or wedding events when I need to plug in and leave it, this just makes sense.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks swetrich!
@mrheng562 4 жыл бұрын
Take my Perkins money!!! I can see this being very useful for my students when they’re working their group projects. I’m not a sound guy, but the 32-bit float will save so much time in post. That’s insane flexible!!! As always, great content! Thank you!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Heng, and great to hear from you!
@ramonbs6075 4 жыл бұрын
awesome and very instructional video!!! I think this is the best KZfaq channel of sound related content. Keep going!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Ramón!
@JeffreyHackReacts 3 жыл бұрын
Great review Curtis! I just purchased this item from a sound production friend and am learning how the device works. I've use the Mix-Pre6 and Zoom H4N before. So I'm learning my way around the ballpark.
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
Happy recording!
@zedamex 4 жыл бұрын
Curtis, I may just be another random commenting from the net but I must thank you for basically being relentless and carrying on reviewing audio gear like this. I last commented talking about the F8 when that first came out as I purchased it. It's great to see you still going strong. Ever since then I've always wanted something with a much better headphone amp for listening to your recordings with a less tinny sound, and mic amp with the warmer base sound of the sound devices but with the live podcast-able features and not at $5000 price point. The new F6 (less clipping when doing offline recording) and Mix Pre II has me excited about audio interfaces again. Now I just need to save some money - as for me this is a hobby so the top teir stuff just can not be justified.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks zedamex - really appreciate the feedback. The MixPre line also just added MixAssist which automatically mixes multi-host podcasts more effectively than the AutoMix on the Zoom F series. It's a great time for podcasters!
@NesHacker 2 жыл бұрын
I really appreciate your videos! Wonderful quality and very easy to understand :)
@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks NesHacker.
@johnhmaw 4 жыл бұрын
Wonderful. I want one. Very comprehensive review as always. Many thanks.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks John.
@treffensaintjohnllc2913 4 жыл бұрын
This device is excellent for recording conferences that have questions coming from the audience and there is not a "roaming" mic nearby. In post you can correct the volume without raising the noise floor. It will save TONS of time in post-production! Conversely if you clip the audio this device will save you big time! WOW! Just WOW!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍
@newsbatavian 4 жыл бұрын
I like that you take into consideration the needs of the solo shooter.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍
@EVOlutionHTC4g 4 жыл бұрын
Excellent review as always, Curtis 👍
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Johnny!
@paultryba7228 4 жыл бұрын
Another wonderful video from you. Love your channel and wish the whole youtube world was as well done.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Paul!
@ChannelWright 4 жыл бұрын
Another great review! Thanks Curtis!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍
@declicked 2 жыл бұрын
Awesome video! Was planning on getting one soon, and this has convinced me!
@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын
I hope it works well for you! Happy recording!
@PeterPiklMusic 3 жыл бұрын
Thats really a fantastic review/comparison. Literally all I could wish for to make a decision. Thank you very much! 🙏
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
You're most welcome, Peter. Best wishes!
@JavierMercedes 4 жыл бұрын
That 32 bit float example is blowing my mind.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
It is pretty cool for directly connected mics with a lot of dynamic range. Just remember that it doesn't apply to wireless mic systems - they'll usually clip before the audio gets to the recorder.
@RonaldSuper7 4 жыл бұрын
Great great work.... This is as comprehensive a review you can get. I agree on your assessment and would get both if I could afford it.....
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Ronald!
@Kit2Canada 4 жыл бұрын
Superb and nicely balanced between pros and cons. Thank you
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Kit!
@maxheadrom3088 3 жыл бұрын
This is the channel I click like before watching. Excellent!
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Max.
@EnforcerMan 4 жыл бұрын
Awesome review man. This device is certainly an overkill for me but my wife just surprised me with the Zoom F6 and NTG5 mic for my birthday ... little over the top for my start up KZfaq channel ...lol I am learning a lot from you about audio. Thank you
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Great combo! Audio gear: check!
@AriRannveigarson 4 жыл бұрын
Excellent video, really helped me with my decision making. The new firmware that came for mixpre this week included AutoMix and Sound Reports. the F series are great and you get a lot for your money, used to own F8. (only major downside was the headphone amp) thanks for your time and effort put in this review
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks!
@sorryaboutnico 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for mentioning the auto-mix feature. Definitely something for me to look into.
@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын
👍
@johnnytrayes4734 4 жыл бұрын
Brilliant review thanks so much Curtis
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Johnny!
@cccid 4 жыл бұрын
very nicely done video. apprecaite the time code and the work. keep it up!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Clement!
@pederjelsbak8361 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your fantastic reviews 👍
@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Peder!
@Ranger7Studios 4 жыл бұрын
You had me at the 32 bit float. This will be my next audio purchase. :)
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍
@AlBergstein 4 жыл бұрын
Once again great job Curtis. The new zoom product seems like another leap forward for them. Great to see
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Al!
@qwiklok 2 жыл бұрын
A technical tour de force. , thank you. After listening to the equally briiliant video on the Mixpre 6, the form factor, analog limiters, lighted dials and screen won out. the unit fits winderfully under a Sony A73, winner. These videos are game changers. Again thank you..
@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын
🙏
@alisaljic 4 жыл бұрын
Awesome review Curtis. Thanx.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Alis!
@AudioBoi1 4 жыл бұрын
wow, legendary review and comparison thank you
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Andrew!
@penmelyn 2 жыл бұрын
Davinci now supports 32bit float. Great channel by the way, full of concise info and considered opinion and no flummery!
@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Llywelyn.
@YourStoryStudios 4 жыл бұрын
We've got the MixPre 3 II connected to an EVA1 for video work, but need a permanent solution in our new podcast studio. The F6 looks good, having more inputs at a cost effective price! Thanks for doing the comparison. Very helpful!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks. I'll be curious to hear how you like the F6 relative to the MixPre.
@deneme56 3 жыл бұрын
Excellent video. Thank you Curtis.
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching.
@SatanicJamnic 4 жыл бұрын
LOL! I literally one minute ago was watching Frank Howard's video and was thinking "I am curious when Curtis will drop his video for this week". And here it is!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍 thanks for the rad thumbnail!
@chungdha 3 жыл бұрын
I like MixPre lighting each knob to show which one is clipping without needing to check the screen and which number of channel. But seen setup of MixPre 6 up close the biggest issue was powering it. The L Mount adapter was too odd use in sound bag and we had issue that the metal tabs not connect well and slight movement would disconnect, we had to use large powerbank at the end to power it with being afraid with the flimsy small usb type c could break over time. Zoom F6 with L-mount for me would be a better solution as have many f970 batteries on set to power it for a long time.
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
Sounds like you got a defective battery sled on the MixPre. They should replace it for you. Did you contact SD support?
@chungdha 3 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd we just gave it back to the shop
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
@@chungdha Good luck with the F6, then. I hope it works well for you.
@PhillipBridgesReviews 4 жыл бұрын
This is great! Awesome review.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Phillip!
@hitars 4 жыл бұрын
No.2 item I bought it after your video. $550USD in Australia, what a great price. thank you Curtis.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍
@Kevlexicon 3 жыл бұрын
so helpful approaching an intimidating device. thanks!
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Kevlexicon!
@stevenluckybenson3468 4 жыл бұрын
+Curtis Judd Thank you...excellent overview and comparison. Well done as always!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Steven!
@cli23 4 жыл бұрын
Great review as always!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Casey!
@user-jw4fn6fh2x 4 жыл бұрын
Wow, I'm impressed with that wide dynamic range adjustment capability. I would buy it just for that. Wish I had this unit years ago.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Pretty cool - a substantial step forward for audio recording.
@DavidSchamis 3 жыл бұрын
Excellent review- thanks!
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks David.
@albertofelicettii426 4 жыл бұрын
32-bit float works perfectly. Thanks Curtis
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍
@JustVoss 4 жыл бұрын
Great video, Would love if you did a review of the Zoom LiveTrak L-12.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Hi Justin, thanks. At this point I’ll probably look at the L8 which appears to be aimed more at podcasting. The L-12 appears to be aimed more at recording bands.
@JustVoss 4 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd I didn't even know that was a thing but that looks like a better option for me also!
@FlashOnTwos 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the review. Now when you have time, I think we'd all appreciate a full tutorial on every single function that this thing has!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
I will be working on a course as soon as I can reserve enough time off of work. 😀
@FlashOnTwos 4 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd Awesome. Take a vacation or something! lol. Thanks!
@tomzizzi2389 4 жыл бұрын
Very helpful and well-done. Thanks
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Tom!
@peterwiessenthaner5107 2 жыл бұрын
Hallo Curtis Judd thank you for this good informations. I work with these audio recorder 2 years and i like it. Since the zoom f6 is very small, it is not easy to adjust the settings. Otherwise, I am very satisfied with the recorder.
@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын
Glad it works well for you 👍🎙
@LaRobertos 4 жыл бұрын
just about to start using it on our channel this week for in studio recording and work our way out to the field after we get to know and learn it
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Congrats! I hope it works well for you!
@LaRobertos 4 жыл бұрын
Curtis Judd your my audio hero
@KozKreoleKwenKomedi 4 жыл бұрын
Nice in depth review, Can you tell me if you will recommend this recorder for a Live concert
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Yes, can definitely work for recording live concerts.
@MyJeanf 4 жыл бұрын
Excellent video Curtis . The zoom f6 was on my list but ended being a little bit out of my budget. However, in the end I purchased the Zoom F4 as it was on a special deal. I Also purchased you F4 course which helped me get up and running with way better audio this previously recorded with my tascam recorder. . Enjoyed the video. JF
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Glad the F4 is working out for you! Happy recording!
@ChrisAbad 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the in-depth review! Thoughts on using this to record singing vocals?
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
I don't usually record singing - mainly dialogue/spoken word and sound effects for film/video. But it seems like it would be good.
@moamenhelmy9510 4 жыл бұрын
Great review Thanks
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Moamen!
@MattBeardsley 4 жыл бұрын
thanks for this, so helpful!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍 Thanks Matt!
@jukarnarius 4 жыл бұрын
Finally!!!!!! Thank you so much!!!!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
👍
@LiziASMR 2 жыл бұрын
I wonder how is the self-noise when - 60db recovery? Thanks for the great review 🙏
@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын
Surprisingly good, though it depends on the microphone's self-noise characteristics.
@LiziASMR 2 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd thanks a lot for the quick reply! I am about to buy one ☺️🙏
@wcsdiaries 2 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd Between this and the mix pre 3, which do you think is the smaller setup for weddings/run and gun filmmakers?
@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын
@@wcsdiaries about the same volume, different shapes. Nice that the F6 can take Sony batteries on the back, probably keeping the whole thing smaller for longer shoots.
@nike12000haha 3 жыл бұрын
Wow that 32bit float was wild!
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
👍
@johnmartinez4501 4 жыл бұрын
Wow, I was really looking forward to this review, and you did not disappoint! Long list of questions, sorry: 1) Since the F6 has dual ADC's combined with the 32-bit recording, vs. the MixPre II with only 32-bit, what is the performance difference there? How do the dual ADC's contribute to the overall dynamic range? 2) Additionally, in your test of the "recoverability" of the audio clips, how does the F6 perform in raising the levels in post if the sound source itself was very quiet? I assume you were speaking at the same moderate volume in all the samples. Based on my understanding of 32-bit recording (which is admittedly limited), the recorder basically redivides the relative difference in amplitude for a sound wave at the given fader setting, which is what allows you to bring up the volume in post without introducing much extra noise. But what if you already had the fader set at +60 dB, and still had to bring it up a lot in post? I'm probably really misunderstanding 32-bit, but I was just wondering if you could clarify that a bit. 3) Is there a practical reason why the ability to set the gain on the MixPre II would be preferable to the unity gain on the F6, assuming you were using 32-bit recording since doing so would presumably result in no difference in ability to record clean audio? Obviously, being able to set the gain in 24-bit would be a big advantage. 4) Given the inability to set the gain on the F6, how does it perform in 24-bit mode in terms of raising the noise floor at high fader levels? Or having inadvertently set the faders too low, how much does raising it in post raise the noise floor? Again, thank you so much for this review! You've got a lot of amazing content!
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Hi John: 1) The MixPre II also has multiple ADCs. They don't say exactly how many, but their patent cites 3 ADCs and the process for how they re-combine the output of each to record to 32-bit float. The difference seems to be that on the MixPre, they allowed you the freedom to set the gain, which I suspect has to do with the presumed 3 ADCs. 2) That will depends largely on the microphone, is my guess. Will require more tests. 3) Yes, microphones are generally designed/voiced with the assumption that some amount of gain will be applied post mic preamp. You might not get the optimal performance of some microphones on the F6 given this. I didn't find any obvious examples in my testing so far, so this is only theoretical. 4) In 24-bit and 16 bit modes, you can adjust the gain/trim so in those cases, it performs just like a Zoom F8n, which is to say, very well in terms of noise performance.
@tomdchi12 4 жыл бұрын
Nice to have two solid options to chose between! In both cases, the high dynamic range recording (dual A/D converter ant 32 bit float format) creates a massive test of the quality of the preamp, and both are producing amazing results at either extreme. I've been holding off on replacing my H4N, but I'm leaning towards the MixPre 3 II, though I'll have to chew on this a bit more. Some of the features of the F6 are hard to pass up...
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Agreed. Zoom and SD aren’t making this a simple decision.
@devonbiker 4 жыл бұрын
Hi Curtis. Thanks for this video. As mentioned in another post on another video of yours, that I’ve bought the F8n and waiting delivery. Ok, in this video you mentioned this F6 is not suited for recording instruments. So does this apply for F8n as well? I plan not only to record church preaches during this lockdown but also record a few instruments for worship sessions.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Hi Devonbiker, with the F8n, you have more flexibility with its combination input jacks for instruments if you wanted to connect them directly to the F8n. Not so with the F6. Neither of them support overdub/multitrack recording on their own but you can do that with the F8n or F6 connected to a computer running a digital audio workstation app for recording. You should not have any issues with the F8n for this purpose. Best wishes!
@quedecree 4 жыл бұрын
Curtis, do you think F6 is a better machine than the F4 for ambient stereo recordings (often in quiet surroundings) or would it be complete overkill? As some of my recordings would be left to record for an hour or so, I'd probably mostly be 16/44 to keep file size managable although the 32/192 sounds like it could be ideal for things like thunderstorms. I do like the idea of only dealing with 4 AA's and the ability to use a generic power bank with the F6. From what I've gathered from your videos, the Zoom F series - although overkill for my use - maybe worth the extra $$ for their quieter pre amps over something like the Tascam 70D....?
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Definitely better than the Tascam recorders. Based on what you’re planning to record, the F6 seems like a better fit than the F4.
@RecordProduction 3 жыл бұрын
Probably a silly question, using Line in from a pro mixing desk in 32 bit have you any opinions on its performance? I'm looking for a mix of line in and mics. Love your channel :-)
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
I haven't specifically tried but it should work nicely.
@BrianSantero 4 жыл бұрын
Curtis, first of all, I just love your reviews! Great info, great style. Question about the limiters: I'm hoping to use this to record livestreams of classical musicians. Would recording in 32-bit for the dynamic range allow for a limiter on the line-out to a consumer camera? Would it be just a regular threshold limiter, not the look-ahead type? I obviously want the 32-bit for post-production, but would love for my livestream viewers to not get clipping in the case I'm not able to adjust the levels fast enough. I tend to perform (trombone) on these livestreams, so can't do A/V all the time. Any advice is very welcome. Thanks in advance.
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Hi Brian, Yes, there is an output limiter you'll want to engage for the live stream feed. It isn't necessary for the output limiter to be the advanced hybrid look-ahead variety as the audio is already in digital format at that point in the signal chain. I would just suggest being rather conservative on your fader levels and that way you won't have to engage the limiters much. That way you'll have a good recording for post and a good livestream. Best wishes!
@LunaScopeJustin 4 жыл бұрын
Whenever I bring in 32 bit float file into audition or premiere it comes in as like 5 audio tracks linked together... is there a way to have it import as 1 file besides just deleting 4 of the files?
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
Sounds like you have the LR mix enabled and perhaps some channels armed that don't have mics attached to them? You can also change the File Format to mono/stereo in the REC menu. Best wishes!
@musasm 3 жыл бұрын
Hey Curtis. Great review.. What is the device that you used at 6:43? Good luck on your channel..
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
That’s a DI box. It converts unbalanced signals, such as from instruments, to balanced so you can run longer cables.
@maurourrai2550 3 жыл бұрын
Curtis I love your content. I've only discovered your channel lately and for what I've seen it's awesome. . PS: the timbre of the sound devices MixPre-3 II was fabulous, are the preamps the same in the other recorders of the line?
@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Mauro. Yes, the entire MixPre line has the same preamps.
@Pierluigi66 2 жыл бұрын
having rather enjoyed your review I just treated myself to the F6... now the excruciating wait for delivery... thank you for your reviews BTW, a class of their own.
@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын
Congratulations and happy recording!
@BArtsProd 4 жыл бұрын
Hi, I had a little problem when I was trying to send my mix out to my gh5 using a rode wireless go. The problem is that the F6 line out connected to a rode wireless go on the mic input, the level is to high ! Do you have an issu for that problem ? A line level to mic level adapter ?
@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын
You might try the output fader. If that’s not enough, you may need an attenuator cable.
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