Zoom F6 6-Input / 14-Track Multitrack Field Recorder

Description

Zoom F6 6-Input / 14-Track Multitrack Field Recorder

The Zoom F6 6-Input / 14-Track Multitrack Field Recorder is a professional ultra-compact field recording solution designed for filmmakers, production sound engineers, broadcasters, and location audio specialists who require exceptional dynamic range, reliable multitrack recording, and flexible workflow integration. Built around advanced 32-bit float recording technology, the F6 captures distortion-free audio across an extremely wide dynamic range, ensuring accurate sound reproduction even in unpredictable recording environments. With support for up to 14 tracks of simultaneous recording, high-performance microphone preamps, and professional timecode synchronization, the F6 delivers the precision and reliability required for demanding film, broadcast, and immersive audio production.

32-Bit Float Recording for Distortion-Free Audio Capture

The Zoom F6 utilizes 32-bit float recording with dual A/D converters, providing an exceptionally wide dynamic range that eliminates the risk of digital clipping. This advanced recording architecture allows the recorder to capture everything from subtle ambient sounds to extremely loud audio sources without distortion or the need for constant gain adjustments.

Supporting sample rates up to 192 kHz, the F6 ensures high-resolution audio capture suitable for professional film production, location sound, and sound design applications.

Flexible Multitrack Recording Capabilities

Designed for complex production environments, the F6 supports up to 14 tracks of simultaneous recording. Users can record six inputs individually while also capturing a stereo mix, providing flexible options for post-production workflows.

Recording modes include:

• 6-Track Mode: Records six inputs in 24-bit linear or 32-bit float WAV format.

• 14-Track Mode: Records six inputs simultaneously in 24-bit and 32-bit float, plus a stereo mix.

• Ambisonics Mode: Captures four channels of spatial audio for immersive sound recording while leaving two channels available for traditional microphones.

Audio is recorded directly to SD, SDHC, or SDXC memory cards up to 1TB, ensuring reliable storage for extended recording sessions.

Ambisonics Recording for Immersive Audio Production

For advanced spatial audio applications, the F6 features Ambisonics recording support designed for VR, AR, and 360-degree audio production. The built-in Ambisonics mode enables precise A-to-B decoding and balanced gain linking, ensuring accurate spatial audio capture.

Users can further process immersive recordings using Zoom’s Ambisonics Player software, providing convenient decoding and editing during post-production.

Professional-Grade Microphone Preamps

The F6 is equipped with six locking Neutrik XLR inputs, each featuring a high-performance microphone preamp capable of delivering up to 75 dB of gain with an ultra-low noise floor of -127 dBu EIN. These preamps ensure clean amplification and accurate sound reproduction when recording with condenser microphones, lavaliers, shotgun microphones, and balanced line-level sources.

Each input provides:

• Selectable mic or line-level configuration

• 24V or 48V phantom power

• Individual gain control for precise level adjustments

• High headroom for professional audio signals

Hybrid Limiters for 24-Bit Recording Mode

When operating in 24-bit recording mode, the F6 uses advanced look-ahead hybrid limiters to prevent signal overload before it reaches the analog-to-digital converters. This technology introduces a minimal delay of approximately one millisecond to anticipate potential clipping and protect recordings from distortion.

USB Audio Interface Functionality

In addition to standalone recording, the Zoom F6 can operate as a 6-input / 4-output USB audio interface for Mac and Windows systems, supporting audio recording at up to 24-bit / 96 kHz. This allows users to integrate the F6 with digital audio workstations for studio production, streaming, or podcast workflows.

For added security, the recorder can simultaneously record to an SD card while functioning as an audio interface, ensuring redundant backup recording during critical sessions.

Precision Timecode Synchronization

Accurate synchronization with cameras and production systems is achieved through the F6’s dedicated timecode input and output via a 3.5 mm TRS connector. A built-in Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO) provides extremely stable timecode accuracy of ±0.2 ppm, ensuring reliable synchronization throughout extended recording sessions.

Monitoring and Output Flexibility

The F6 offers versatile monitoring and routing options, including a 3.5 mm stereo line output for feeding audio to cameras or external recorders, and a high-output 100 mW headphone amplifier for precise monitoring of audio levels and recording status.

Remote Control and Workflow Integration

The recorder supports multiple remote control options for streamlined production workflows:

• Zoom F-Control (optional): Dedicated hardware control surface with professional faders and mixing controls.

• Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter (optional): Enables wireless remote control using the Zoom F-Control mobile application for iOS devices.

These options allow users to remotely adjust levels, control recording functions, and manage metadata directly from a mobile device.

Rugged and Portable Design

Built for demanding field production environments, the Zoom F6 features a durable and compact chassis that easily fits into sound bags or camera-mounted setups. A 1.54-inch full-color backlit LCD display provides clear visibility of recording levels, battery status, timecode information, and track activity in both daylight and low-light conditions.

Flexible Power Options for Field Production

The F6 offers multiple powering options to support extended recording sessions:

• Four AA batteries

• Sony L-Series battery (sold separately)

• USB-C power supply

• Optional AC adapter

With lithium batteries, the recorder can operate for up to 16.5 hours, ensuring dependable performance during long production days.

Smart AutoMix Technology

Zoom’s AutoMix function automatically adjusts channel levels to reduce ambient noise and maintain a balanced audio mix. This intelligent mixing technology simplifies recording workflows and helps maintain clear dialogue and balanced sound during multi-microphone recordings.

Metadata Support for Efficient Post-Production

The F6 allows users to add metadata such as scene names, track labels, and notes using BWF and iXML formats, making it easier to organize recordings and streamline post-production editing workflows.

Professional Multitrack Field Recording for Film and Broadcast

Combining 32-bit float recording technology, professional microphone preamps, precise timecode synchronization, and flexible multitrack recording capabilities, the Zoom F6 provides a powerful and dependable solution for professional location sound recording.

Offered by Pixon Media Trading, the Zoom F6 Multitrack Field Recorder delivers a compact, high-performance audio recording platform designed to meet the demands of modern film production, broadcast workflows, and immersive audio creation.