The Zoom PodTrak P8 is an eight-channel podcast recorder with six microphone inputs and individual-track recording, adding four channels to the portable PodTrak P4 design.
Recorders in this class often present complex interfaces that demand extensive learning. ProSound reported that the PodTrak P8 instead resembles a standard mixer, avoiding unnecessary complications by utilizing a large touchscreen for convenient and intuitive operation.
Connections sit at the top of the unit with channel faders positioned below. Six XLR microphone inputs support +48 V phantom power, and each features an individual switch for dynamic or condenser operation.
P8 Preamps and Call Management Features Work Well
The P8 utilizes high-quality preamps with a large 70 dB gain range. ProSound said that even demanding dynamic microphones work well and produce professional results.
A smartphone can accept calls or provide another audio source. Mix-Minus technology prevents return audio from creating problems during calls.
Connection occurs through a four-contact mini-jack or Bluetooth using the optional Zoom BTA-2 adapter. A computer can also provide audio through channel six, which features a return mode routing computer sound directly to the input.
Outputs and Hardware Processing
Six headphone outputs allow every podcast participant to hear the result. All receive the master signal while maintaining independent volume controls.
Each channel includes an ON AIR button for off-air communication without removing headphones. This removes the selected channel from the master bus while keeping it active in headphone monitoring.
The unit features eight pads for jingles and background music, assignable to WAV files at 16 or 24-bit and 44 kHz. Four sample-assignment presets store quick changes, and pads can display different colors for easier identification.
Touchscreen and Audio Editing
A bright 4-inch touchscreen displays meters and settings. Tapping a channel icon opens input settings containing a low-cut filter, EQ, compressor, de-esser, and a limiter to prevent overload.
The P8 can edit recorded files directly. Waveform display supports trimming, fades, adding or deleting markers, normalization, and background music integration with later MP3 conversion.
Power arrives via a 5 V adapter, computer USB, smartphone charger, or four AA batteries housed in a rear compartment. USB Type-C connects a computer or mobile device, and recording relies on Class 10 or faster SDHC and SDXC cards.
