Zoom PodTrak P8 Portable Multitrack Podcast Recorder

Designed specifically for the recording, editing, and production of high-quality multi-person podcasts on the go, the Zoom PodTrak P8 is a portable multitrack podcast recorder. It enables users to effortlessly record up to six microphones, manage two echo-free remote call-ins concurrently, trigger sound samples, and deliver individual headphone feeds for each guest, all simultaneously. This is achieved with remarkable ease, facilitated by the large full-color LCD touchscreen

The PodTrak P8 is designed with intuitive, tactile controls and robust audio processing and editing capabilities, making it an excellent choice for recording, streaming, and exporting high-quality audio for intricate panel podcasts. It accommodates both dynamic and condenser microphones, features customizable sound pads, and allows for call-ins through smartphones or computers, along with independent headphone outputs; the PodTrak P8 is fully equipped to handle all the requirements of a podcast production station.

Additional features such as per-channel tone controls, compression and de-essing, limiters, low-cut filters, and noise reduction are exceptional tools for producing professional-quality tracks. The integrated mix-minus function effectively eliminates echo and feedback for remote guests, while various powering options enhance the versatility of the PodTrak P8, establishing it as a comprehensive solution for podcasting.

PodTrack P8 vs P4

The PodTrak P8 distinguishes itself from the smaller PodTrak P4 by being designed for more intricate podcasting scenarios involving larger groups. The P8 features additional microphone preamps, multiple headphone outputs along with speaker outputs, an increased number of sound pads, enhanced options for signal enhancement, a comprehensive set of fluid editing capabilities, and a sizable 4.3-inch full-color touchscreen that facilitates easy navigation of all adjustable settings. Furthermore, the P8 allows users to edit and export complete podcasts without the need for a computer.

Six High-Gain Mic Inputs

The PodTrak P8 is equipped with six microphone preamps that can accommodate a variety of microphones, whether you choose announcer-style dynamic microphones like the Zoom ZDM-1 (sold separately) or opt for the clarity of condenser microphones. Each preamp includes a balanced XLR input jack, selectable +48V phantom power, and offers up to 70 dB of gain, providing sufficient amplification to achieve optimal recording levels with various microphones, including the renowned Shure SM7B.

Headphone Mixes for You and All Your Guests

Equipped with six 3.5mm stereo headphone outputs, the PodTrak P8 allows you and your guests to enjoy independent headphone mixes, each featuring its own color-coded level control situated beneath the corresponding headphone jack. Regardless of the situationwhether it is a private interview or a lively panel discussioneveryone will be able to hear the audio clearly.

To ensure the best setup in your home studio, the PodTrak P8 also includes two balanced 1/4″ speaker outputs with a dedicated volume control. Simply connect them to a pair of active monitors, adjust the volume, and enjoy the sound.

Echo-Free Remote Call-Ins

Podcasters often engage with remote guests, prompting Zoom to incorporate two methods for facilitating call-ins through physical connections. Users can connect their smartphones directly to the 3.5mm TRRS phone port located on channel 7, or they can link a computer via USB to channel 6, allowing audio from their preferred conferencing software to be integrated. Additionally, both options can be utilized simultaneously to accommodate two remote guests.

Regardless of whether TRRS, USB, or both are employed, the PodTrak P8 is designed to automatically eliminate echo and feedback through its integrated mix-minus feature, ensuring that remote guests are not distracted by the repetition of their own voice.

Supports BTA-2 for Wireless Remote Guests

If you prefer to go wire-free for call-ins, connect the Zoom BTA-2 Bluetooth receiver (available separately) to the PodTrak P8 and use your smartphone to wirelessly pipe in your call audio via Bluetooth.

Assignable Sound Pads with Preset Sounds

The PodTrack P8 features nine sound pads adjacent to the LCD touchscreen, designed to enhance the quality of your podcast production through the integration of music, jingles, advertisements, sound effects, or pre-recorded interviews, all activated with a simple button press. You can utilize 13 preset sounds or upload as many as 36 of your own samples, which can be organized into four distinct banks for greater flexibility. Additionally, a dedicated fader facilitates straightforward control over the output volume of the sound pads.

Instant Access to Volume, On-Air, and Mute for Each Input

Each channel on the PodTrak P8 is equipped with an individual volume slider, mute function, and on-air button. This design allows for swift volume adjustments and the ability to mute or unmute guests without the need to sift through menus. Additionally, by simply deselecting a channel’s on-air button, the audio is directed solely to the headphones, excluding the speakers, USB output, or recording. This feature is particularly advantageous for side conversations or for preparing guests prior to the upcoming segment.

Record up to 13 Tracks Simultaneously

The PodTrak P8 allows for the simultaneous recording of up to 13 tracks onto an SD card. This includes six or seven tracks from the microphone input channels (with channel 6 capable of recording in stereo when in USB mode), two tracks from the smartphone input, two tracks from the sound pads, and two tracks from the overall stereo mix.

User-Friendly Editing

The integrated editing features enable users to trim, split, merge, and fade audio clips, allowing for the creation of a complete episode directly on the P8. This functionality ensures that you can edit and export entire podcasts without the need to use a computer. The process is carried out seamlessly via the P8’s color touchscreen interface.

SD Card Recording and Audio Interface Functionality

The PodTrack P8 is engineered for exceptional portability, allowing for direct recording onto an SDHC card (with a maximum capacity of 32GB) or an SDXC card (supporting up to 512GB). Utilizing a 4GB card enables over three hours of recording time in 16-bit / 44.1 kHz across four channels, employing the BWF-compliant WAV format to ensure uncompressed audio quality and compatibility with industry standards. It is important to note that media cards must be purchased separately, and using higher capacity cards may result in longer startup times.

Additionally, the PodTrak P8 can function as a 2-in/2-out USB 2.0 audio interface (at 16-bit / 44.1 kHz) when connected to a Mac or Windows computer, or to iOS or Android mobile devices (an Apple Camera Connection Kit, sold separately, is necessary for iOS device compatibility).

Powered via AA Batteries, AC Adapter, or USB

The PodTrak P8 can be powered in several ways: by utilizing four AA batteries (sold separately), connecting it to a wall outlet with the provided AD-14 AC adapter, or employing an external USB battery. Alkaline batteries can sustain the P8 for a maximum of two hours of uninterrupted recording. Additionally, when operating the P8 in stereo USB audio interface mode, it is also feasible to power it via USB bus.

Powerful Signal Processing Adds Sonic Polish

The PodTrak P8’s onboard effects allow you to add professional polish to your recordings without resorting to postproduction processing on a computer. Via the touchscreen, you can access each channel’s easy-to-use settings.

• Mic Preamp Gain: A simple slider adjusts the mic preamp gain while the meter is divided into Low, Good, and Over sections to help you set the level properly
• Limiter: Prevents distortion from sudden spikes in level
• Low-Cut Filter: Reduces wind noise, blowing, and other kinds of low-frequency rumble
• Tone: Drag the slider to make the sound brighter or warmer
• Compresser/DeEsser: Provides more presence and impact