If you’re looking for a comparison of the Zoom H6 vs H8, you’re in the right spot. Zoom has been a leader in the audio recording industry for years, providing videographers and filmmakers with top-notch audio equipment for both amateur and professional applications. The Zoom H6 and H8 are now two of their most popular handheld digital audio recorders, with the H8 being the newest and most recent upgrade to the H series.

Both offer a wide variety of features and capabilities for different types of users. In this review, we’ll be diving into their technical specs, discussing some of the pros and cons of each, keeping an eye on some critical similarities and differences, and talking about the different types of users that each recorder would benefit the most. Let’s take a look.

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Zoom H6

Zoom H6 All Black (2020 Version) 6-Track Portable Recorder, Stereo Microphones, 4 XLR/TRS Inputs, Records to SD Card, USB Audio Interface, Battery Powered, Podcasting and Music

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Zoom H8

Zoom H8 8-Input / 12-Track Portable Handy Recorder with 128GB Pro Memory Card & Wide-Mouth Case Bundle

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Zoom H6 vs H8: Technical Specs

Zoom H8

Zoom H6

A/D resolution

24-bit/96kHz (196 kHz max)

16-bit/44.1kHz, 24-bit/96kHz

Simultaneous recording channels

12

6

Modular mic capsule(s)

XYH-6 X/Y mic

XYH-6 X/Y mic

MSH-6 MS mic

Inputs

4 x XLR-¼” TRS combo jacks, 2 x stereo ⅛” mic/line inputs, 1 x stereo ⅛” line-in jack

4 x XLR-¼” TRS combo jacks

Outputs

1 x ⅛” stereo mini jack (line out), 2 x ¼” mono line-out jacks

1 x ⅛” stereo mini jack (line out)

Headphones

1 x ⅛” stereo mini jack

1 x ⅛” stereo mini jack

Recording media

SD/SDHC/SDXC (up to 512GB)

SD/SDHC/SDXC (up to 128GB)

File format

Stereo mode: WAV, MP3, BWF

Multitrack mode: WAV

Stereo mode: WAV, MP3

Multitrack mode: WAV

Display

2.4″ Touch screen (320 x 240 pixels)

2.0″ Full color LCD (320 x 240 pixels)

Effects

Compressor, limiter, low-cut filter, playback looping, pitch change, variable playback speed, metronome, guitar tuner

Compressor, limiter, low-cut filter, playback looping, pitch change, variable playback speed, metronome, guitar tuner

Audio interface

via USB

via USB

Power supply

AA battery x 4, AC adapter, USB bus power

AA battery x 4, AC adapter, USB bus power

Battery life

Over 10 hours

Over 20 hours

Stand mountable

via optional adapter

via optional adapter

Dimensions (w/ XYH mic)

2.85” (W) x 13.55” (D) 9.2” (H)

3.1” (W) x 8.4” (D) x 1.9” (H) 

Weight

1.83 lbs

0.90 lbs

Additonal data Zoom H8 web page Zoom H6 web page

Zoom H6

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Zoom H8

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Zoom H6 vs H8: Sound Comparison

Zoom H6 vs H8: Key Similarities & Differences

The Zoom H6 and H8 share many similarities in terms of their basic functions and features. For example, they both offer high-quality audio recording with a range of recording formats. They both have built-in microphones with the same preamps, and they both allow for easy monitoring with headphone jacks and line-out jacks.

It should be obvious at this point, though, that the H8 has some more advanced features than the H6. It has a larger and more detailed display screen which also offers touch functionality. The H8 also has more input and output channels, and supports a wider range of recording formats. Additionally, the H8 includes a shotgun microphone and a dual XLR/TRS combo capsule input, making it more versatile for professional-level recording.

Locking XLR jacks

One difference that is often overlooked between the two lies in the XLR combo jacks. The H8 has locking jacks the prevent the XLR cable from detaching while recording, which may be crucial for some users. The H6 lacks this feature.

I/O Differences

The main difference between the two lies in the number of input and output channels they offer. While the H6 offers six input channels, the H8 offers eight, making it a better option for users who need to record a lot of sources at once. Do you need to record your band playing a gig at the local dive bar? The H8 is probably a better choice. The H8 also offers two additional stereo 1/8″ mic/line inputs, which allows for even more versatility in your setup.

Another difference between the two recorders is their built-in microphone options. While the H6 includes an X/Y mic and Mid-side mic, the H8 has four built-in microphones, including a shotgun mic. The H8 also allows for the attachment of additional mic capsules, making it a more versatile option for those who require more microphone options.

Zoom H6 vs H8: The Bottom Line

The Zoom H6 and H8 are both great handheld digital audio recorders that offer high-quality audio recording and a range of features for both amateur and professional users. That being said, each recorder is better suited to different types of users.

The Zoom H6 is an excellent option for amateur users who require a portable and affordable recorder for basic audio recording. Its compact design and longer battery life make it easy to carry around and use for extended periods of time. Additionally, its six input channels and built-in microphones are suitable for most basic recording needs.

On the other hand, the Zoom H8 is a better option for professional users who require more advanced recording capabilities and versatility. Its eight input channels, wider range of recording formats, and additional built-in microphones make it a more versatile option for recording in various settings. The ability to attach additional mic capsules makes it a better option for those who require the use of a wider variety of mics for different recording scenarios.