Zoom LiveTrak L-8 Portable 8-Channel Digital Mixer and Multitrack Recorder

The Zoom LiveTrak L-8 digital mixer and recorder offers the versatility of Zoom's renowned LiveTrak L-Series in a compact and portable design, specifically tailored for podcasting and music production while on the move. With its user-friendly controls and straightforward functionality, the LiveTrak L-8 enables users to initiate a podcast or music recording session within minutes.

The LiveTrak L-8 is equipped with six microphone preamps, four separate headphone outputs, a phone tap for conducting call-in interviews, and six sound pads, making it well-suited for roundtable podcasts or recording multiple musicians. Its versatility is enhanced by the ability to operate on AA batteries or a USB power supply, allowing for recording in any location.

Whether you choose to record onto an SD card, stream through USB to a computer or iOS device, or do both simultaneously, the LiveTrak L-8 supports up to 12 channels of multitrack recording at once. Simply connect your microphones, whether dynamic or condenser, plug in your headphones, and prepare to create high-quality content swiftly.

Panel Podcasts are No Problem

The LiveTrak L-8 is equipped with six transparent, low-noise microphone preamps that feature selectable phantom power, allowing it to support both dynamic and condenser microphones for you and several guests. Simply insert an SDHC or SDXC card to begin recording immediately. Additionally, it is possible to perform multitrack recording via USB to a computer or iOS mobile device, although an Apple Camera Connection Kit (sold separately) is required for iOS devices. Regardless of the recording medium selected, the L-8 captures individual tracks, providing enhanced flexibility for post-production tasks such as editing and mixing.

Six Sound Pads for Triggering Samples or Music

Incorporate sound effects and music segments to enhance the dynamism of your podcast. The LiveTrak L-8 is equipped with six assignable sound pads, enabling you to promptly activate effects, music, applause, pre-recorded interviews, or advertisements. Additionally, the LiveTrak L-8 includes 13 preset sounds for its sound pads, ensuring it is prepared for immediate production upon unboxing.

Easy Phone Call Interviews

The LiveTrak L-8 features a phone tap that facilitates seamless interviews with guests calling in remotely, whether through traditional phone lines or popular applications such as Skype and FaceTime. To connect your mobile device, use the provided TRRS cable to link it to the 3.5mm TRRS port (note that certain iOS devices may need a Lightning to headphone jack adapter). The L-8 employs a mix-minus function, which prevents the caller from experiencing an echo of their own voice.

Multiple Independent Headphone Outputs

It is essential for both the host and each guest in your podcast to have a clear auditory experience of the production content. The L-8 provides four 1/4" stereo headphone outputs, each equipped with independent level controls and mix selectors. The primary headphone output derives from the master output, while the remaining three outputs can be designated to either the master mix or a separate cue mix. For effective monitoring, connect the balanced XLR stereo master outputs to a set of active speakers.

Track Song Demos with Multiple Musicians

The LiveTrak L-8 facilitates the straightforward recording of song demos and live performances involving multiple musicians. The initial two channels of the L-8 are equipped with 1/4" Hi-Z inputs, enabling direct connections for instruments like guitars and basses. Channels 7 and 8 are designed with 1/4" line inputs, suitable for connecting devices such as drum machines or stereo keyboards. The other inputs, specifically channels 3 to 6, can be utilized for microphones, accommodating sources like vocals and drums. Additionally, the four 1/4" headphone outputs provide the capability to create tailored mixes for each musician.

Flexible Powering Methods

The L-8 can be conveniently operated in remote locations using four AA batteries, providing up to 2 hours of power with alkaline batteries, 3.5 hours with 1900 mAh NiMH batteries, or 6.5 hours with lithium batteries (batteries sold separately). Included with the device are a USB cable and the Zoom AD-17 USB-to-AC adapter, allowing for operation from an AC outlet. Additionally, the L-8 can be powered using a USB battery or power bank. The USB connection is specifically designed to prevent accidental power interruptions, ensuring a reliable power source.

Efficiently Save and Recall Entire Scenes

Adjust your levels, fine-tune the mix, and subsequently save your configurations in one of the seven scene presets available on the L-8. With a simple press of a button, you can recall a scene to swiftly reconfigure the L-8. Develop distinct scenes tailored for various situations, including podcasting, live streaming, band rehearsals, and additional applications.

Record up to 12 Tracks

The L-8 is capable of recording as many as 10 individual tracks along with a stereo mix directly onto an SD card, supporting resolutions of up to 24-bit / 96 kHz. It can also function as a 12-input / 4-output audio interface, connecting to your computer or iOS mobile device through USB, with a maximum resolution of 24-bit / 48 kHz. Users can engage in punch recording and overdubbing at any point, facilitating more intricate production processes. Additionally, the sound quality of your tracks can be enhanced through built-in effects, as well as a 3-band EQ and low-cut filter for each channel; however, please note that effects, EQ, and overdub capabilities are not available at 96 kHz.