Thanks for your video comparison. Although you make interesting points, I think a couple of them aren't so important. For example, on the Rodecaster, I never take out the tiny micro-SD memory card for transferring files to my computer. I simply use the USB cable instead which I find much more convenient for transferring audio files. I do the same thing with the compact Zoom PodTrak P4 which takes a full size SD card, but I prefer to use a USB-C cable to transfer files from the P4 to my computer so I don't have to remove and re-insert the card which I find is a hassle. As for the PodTrak P8 having XLR ports on top of the unit versus the Rodecaster on the back, that is a matter of preference as to which design is "better". On the Rodecaster, it can be considered a "feature" to have the XLR cables running out from behind the unit which makes for a cleaner look that doesn't clutter the top of the unit. Can you imagine having 6 XLR cables all jutting out from the PodTrak P8 at the same time? I imagine it to be a tangled web of a mess. The PodTrak P8 definitely has its advantages such as taking internal batteries which is convenient versus using a USB cable and external battery pack for the Rodecaster. But then again, both the Rodecaster and PodTrak P8 are rather large-ish console type units which means it would simply stay put on my desk at home nearly 24/7. If I need true portability, I would simply tote around my very compact handheld PodTrak P4 instead. The one feature on the PodTrak P8 that I find really slick is the built-in audio editing capability. I wish the Rodecaster has it, but maybe Rode might incorporate that same functionality in its next firmware update. But even as you mentioned, you would rather do audio editing in post via Audacity or whatever. The one thing I really detest is Zoom making Bluetooth functionality an optional accessory for their Zoom BTA-2 dongle that costs $49 extra to have wireless calling. Plus it's also yet another accessory among maaaany accessories in the carry bag that can get lost or misplaced. The Rodecaster on the other hand simply has Bluetooth calling functionality built into its unit, which is far better. For myself, I'm really way more interested in doing remote guest calls, especially during these pandemic days. So whichever device makes it easier for bringing on remote guests, that gets my vote as the better unit. In the remote calling connection department, I would give the vote to the Rodecaster since it has built-in Bluetooth calling. You can't even buy the optional $49 Zoom Bluetooth BTA-2 adapter anywhere at this time if you wanted to, much less even get a Zoom PodTrak P8 or P4 in your hands. Why is Zoom taking so long for retailers to have these items in stock? Regardless, I'm glad there is more competition out there for podcasting devices, it's obviously better to have more choices than less.

The feature you are describing with the channel isolation and gain reduction is really valuable when doing a group podcast. I use this feature on my MixPre 6 II and is called MixAssist.

Great content. I recently purchased the RODEcaster, but I do have Zoom P4 envy. Don't take this personal, but with even with all that equipment, your SSSS's and peaking was quite noticeable.

Thanks for the info...im starting out podcasting this month Jan or Feb 2021... I almost ordered the Rodecaster...however, for the price and functionality, I'm starting with the PODTRAK 4. Once I get familiar with podcasts, my workflow, mics, phone-calls, and the Podcasting equipment, software, etc...I WILL HAVE A BIG DECISION to make with the Rodecaster or PODTRAK 8! You just gave me HUGH insight into both. Thanks soooo much!

Rodecaster Pro is a small equipment that closest for broadcasting purposes with all detail configuration there. I use it as my main equipment for streaming radio, and I got what all I needed.

Is there anyway to replicate the On Air button with the Rodecaster? We have a user that comes in through Discord (with Discord Quality) but records locally as well and emails it to us. The issue is we can't all hear him with the USB muted, and when we use multitrack we have a lot of echo because we're confined to a small space. This seems like a small feature to buy another mixer for, but it would save me hours of editing a week.

Nice rev. Does those sound pads make a lot of clicky noise when you push them on the PodTrak? I'm curious...

I'm an old radio guy having had 15 hour a week of live radio talk shows, I'm phasing out being in my 70's now and not wanting to work that hard, so my comments are directed towards live streaming or podcasting. Point 1, depending on your listening audience--who your podcast is directed at, most all people cannot hear those little blurps, simply stated, ones hearing goes South the older we get. I used to have a producer that would blow his top at the slightest on-air blurp. So perfection in editing in my opinion is WAY overblown for this entertainment/educational genre. The on device editing on this Podtrak is enough for 98% of the podcasters out there, those who are interested in the journey and not frustrated audio engineers. That one feature sold me. And most of the other features covered in this video. I ordered mine today, and as far as I know, NOBODY has these in stock yet. Sweetwater will ship there's in mid December as that is the timeframe they have been told by the manufacture that they will be here from Japan. I was a few seconds from hitting the buy button on the Rodecaster and decided to re-examine what is offered from other companies and was glad I did.

I think the deciding factor for me is the warranty. I’ll get a Zoom as a backup. I’m sold on Rode products due to their warranties on their products. Also I like the fact that it’s made out of metal.

On the other hand... talking about ON AIR button... you already have producer mode on the RCP

Are you reviewing something you actually own or from product information only? I only ask as I'm looking at starting reviews myself. Thanks for sharing this.

Would i be able to record in Mp3 so I can upload to hosting website (PODBEAN)?

Can I record music with it including instruments?

There are a ton of KZfaq reviews for the Zoom Podtrak P8 but zero people actually showing how to use it as an audio interface by connecting it to a computer and recording directly into a DAW. Be the first and help people out.

compromised headphone fidelity monitoring is a bit concerting. this is why a Behringer and Presonus interface bugs me. At first, I thought the knowledge that the artifacts were not a part of the recording was enough to ignore it. But I had found that it actually does compromise my mixdown. The behringer headphone has a little hiss and is also prone to EM interference from nearby cables. The Presonus just has random cracking in the headphone mix. Both are not included in the actual mix, but clean headphone outs can be found in other interfaces at the same price range. Unfortunately, Podcast mixers are currently a niche product, althoug hI expect more to enter the marketplace soon. Zoom, TC-Helicon, and Rode are it for now. Your observation about the Zoom's compromised headphone out might be a deal breaker for me. I have also found that impedance mismatching can also cause some artifacts. Some IEMs are noisier than actually using proper studio cans.

Thanks for this video, great review. I think it needs to be emphasized, that the Rodecaster can send out its channels via usb on separate tracks, so you can do real-time multi-track recording, while the Zoom can‘t. (Neither the P8, not the P4 - although on the P4 I’m not really expecting it for the price, but on the P8 I actually would) Also, being able to record 3 remote guests at the same time is pretty big of an advantage for the Rodecaster - so while yes, they both record 7 inputs in total, it is important that out of the 7 for the Rodecaster it is 3 remote guests, while on the Zoom it is only 2. If it matters to some of us. While we have Covid, it makes all the difference, if you can‘t have people with you in the studio there‘s really no point in paying for the P8 as the P4 can handle it beautifully. Not sure the extra 300 is worth the on-board editing. Again, great work, well-explained throughout, thanks!!!

Is it possible for them to add mixing with firmware updates? I am stuck on which to buy right now. I have both in my cart trying to figure it out

i watched another review, and they were pretty much focus on the fact that zoom pre bakes the output of the wav file and podcaster pro allows for different options. One being more inline with syncing with video. Another podcaster like the fact zoom provides auto muting . Everyone talks about the banks for sounds though they don't mention that zoom goes to 36 and Rode goes to 64. Great review each time i watch one it is interesting to see who focuses on what. Each review i have seen the rode seem justifiable for the extra 100 / 50 dollars

Thanks for the great video. I have no subscribed. Do you have a comparison with the small H8? I am thinking about getting that as a companion to my RodeCaster Pro. Thank you.

Excellent tutorial video

Is it possible to use it as an audio interface and record to SD simultaneously like when streaming?

If the p8 could mix. Would be the best multitrack recorder ever.

Any mention on the 16 and 24 bit sound difference?

Thanks for this video. Thinking about getting one of these units, not sure which one yet.

Dave (and everyone else reading this), what do you think of the Zoom L-8? I feel like it's a sleeper! It has great sound. The price is better than the Zoom p8 and the Rodecaster. It's versatile. I feel like Zoom revamped the L-8 and called it P8 and told podcasters this is the tech you need. What do you think?

Thank you for the comparison. Valuable video and good content. One comment however: for a video about a mixer it is unfortunate that your mic is recorded too hot and is clipping with distortion throughout the video; this kind of undermines your credibility.

Love the new intro

Thanks for this comparison. What is the make of the zoom body? Is it plastic or metal. Also how does that compare to rode

technically you have six 6 mic-pre amp on zoom p8 and 4 pre-amp on the rode, the benefit is you can record six mics on zoom p8, you can only do 4 mics on rode, its a big different for those that need more mic input. , yes they have the same amount of fader but on rode two of the fader is without standard input but jut to push the bluetooth and usb big difference and plus for zoom should anyone looking to add more mics .

I have the Zoom and I want to record in Adobe but put the different inputs on different tracks, is that possible?

Zoom is an amazing product that real broadcasters will love. It’s intuitive, and ergonomically engineered for studio operation or on the go field production. Rhode is a great product too, but their dependence on preprogrammed mic adjustments and its design is to look “clean” but that limits true functionality. And I really dislike the big sound buttons, this eats up board functionality space, Rhode is designed for an audio novice. Zoom is a hands down winner for an experienced audio engineer.

Can the Zoom take a line input?

Solid review [applause emojis]. Now if only Zoom made the P4 with the compressor etc.

Love my Rode but the Zoom looks good too.

there´s lot of ssss sounding

Zoom wins.

noisy headphone amp is a deal breaker. Sorry, Zoom.

smth is wrong with your sound quality, sorry

"and we talk about that in a second", I guess your seconds are couple of minutes

Dave needs a haircut 😜