Recorder Zoom R24

Zoom released an improved and expanded version of its R16 recorder, adding eight more tracks and some loop and rhythm track sampling features. Both the R16 and R24 evolved from the earlier Zoom hard drive multitrack recorders, which were essentially separate products that provided an affordable way to record, mix, master and record CDs, functioning as a versatile portable alternative to Windows or Apple-based DAW systems. Few people want to work exclusively with hardware these days, so products like the R24 have gained additional functionality that allows them to work in conjunction with computers rather than as an alternative. 

The Zoom R24 multitrack recorder, interface, controller and sampler combines many different audio tools in one powerful unit: it is a stand alone multitrack recorder, a USB 2.0 computer audio interface, a control surface, and a battery operated field recorder, mixer, drum machine and sampler. Whether you're recording musicians or working on an indie film, you'll always find a use for the Zoom R24. Recording is done on SD/SDHC cards up to 32GB, although a more modest 1GB card is included. It communicates with a computer via USB 2.0 and has outputs for speakers and headphones. Recording can be done at 41.1 or 48 kHz, in 16 or 24-bit format, and eight tracks can be recorded simultaneously. When used as an eight-input/two-output interface, sampling frequencies up to 96 kHz can be used to record to a computer. Most of the basic functions of the R24 are simple and easy to recall without reference to a manual.

Features

• 24-track playback, 8-track simultaneous recording
• Built-in stereo condenser microphones
• Records directly to SD and SDHC cards up to 32 GB for up to 100 track hours
• Records mono and stereo WAV files (16/24-bit, 44.1/48 kHz sampling rates)
• Eight balanced mic/line/instrument-level inputs on XLR/TRS combo connectors
• 1 Low-Z input for connection of passive electric guitar and bass
• +24 and +48V phantom power (6 channels)  
• Dual balanced 1/4" TRS output jacks
• Headphone output with dedicated volume control 
• Built-in metronome and chromatic tuner
• More than 100 send-return and insert DSP effects, including amp/preamp models and mastering algorithms
• User editing of effects parameters, with 390 patch memories for storage
• Independent level, pan, and EQ for each track
• Internal track bouncing and mixdown of multitrack to stereo
• Flexible overdubbing and both manual and automatic punch-in/out
• Loop playback with waveform zoom and user-defined start/stop points
• Variable playback speed from 50% to 150%, without affecting pitch
• Up to 100 marks per recording
• Invert track phase function
• Trim and Divide file editing
• 24-voice pad sampler (3 banks of 8 pads) with adjustable pad sensitivity
• Rhythm machine with 160 drum and percussion sounds
• Storage for 100 user-created rhythm patterns of up to 100 bars each
• Manual play or step entry of rhythm patterns with adjustable quantization
• Loop-based audio sequencer integrates recorder, rhythm machine, and pad sampler
• Backlit LCD with contrast control for easy viewing in low-light environments
• 4-segment LED metering
• 8-in/2-out USB audio interface for Macintosh/Windows computers
• High-definition 24-bit/96 kHz playback capability with DAW software
• Control Surface functionality (Mackie Control emulation)
• Full mixing and transport controls for Cubase, Logic, Ableton Live, and other DAWs
• Two R24s can be synchronized via USB for 48 tracks of playback and 16 tracks of simultaneous recording
• USB bus power
• SD card reader function
• Runs on 6 AA batteries, with alkaline battery life of more than 4.5 hours
• AC adapter included

User manual