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.
Full Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, JuicedLink may earn a small commission from purchases made through any of the links or buttons below, at no additional cost to you. Earnings help us with website maintenance and make it easier for us to bring you the best information available.
Zoom H6
Zoom H8
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
Zoom H8
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.
