Well I only recently got the Tascam FR-AV2 and the Zoom H2 Ess - but The Zoom H1Ess and F3 are always in my bag and the Sony PCM A10 is always in my back pocket, so I guess I use these the most. Lots of larger recorders are on the shelf (Sound Devices, Zooms, Tascams etc) but I tend to stick to the EDC smaller models.) Did I mention I like sounds and sound gathering?
First of all, thank you very much. As I wrote in my comment, my current favourite is TASCAM. But I keep looking at Sound Devices. Essential for my setup is the automatic line level recording with additional the five-second pre-recording. So five seconds are additional recorded before the record button was pressed.
Hi! Many thanks for this extremely useful video! I have a good experience with the combo h1essesial + clippy mics. but the preamps are questionable in h1E I think Tascam fr-av2 is the best thing for the portable stereo pair system now. Also maybe the price of fr-av2 will go down that happened with tascam x8 what do you think about zoom H1 XLR (the part of the essential line)? it could be a good device for the recordings in between of cases for h1E h2E and f3\tascam fr-av2 Thank you!
The recorder that's in my pocket, ready to record. 😉 It used to be my smartphone with a Shure MV88 mic, but in 2025 it's likely to be the Zoom H2e. However, the Tascam FR-AV2 and a slim 10.000 mAh powerbank fits in a Tenba Skyline 4 pouch and may end up as the most used recorder in my kit next year.
The Zoom F6 sounds amazing. I can't stand how you constantly need to update the time/date on it. It's enough to make me want to jump ship to another product. It's an incredibly annoying problem imo. The preamps sound great on them. The Zoom F3 came out a little later and it doesn't seem to have that issue.
F6 will lose date/time if not used for a long period of time. To fix-plug F6 into USB-C charger and turn F6 ON. Leave on USB-C charger and turned ON for 12-24 hours. F6 will now retain date/time. Repeat every few months to ensure F6 does not lose date/time.
There is a killer feature on the Tuscam FR-AV2 that you didn't mention: it has a built in timecode generator. This is a huge feature for video; it enables you to sync audio and video in a breeze!
My H1n's, H2n's and Tascam DR-05's had a big smile on their displays when they heard your words at 15:52 . Together we wish you both a merry christmas 🎄. Viele Grüße - Til.
This is such an informative and timely video! Not only does it reflect your experiences with the equipment, but the amount of excellent footage you could draw from to reinforce your experiences is a testament to the quality of Libby’s videography. An excellent way to end the year, and just in time for the last-minute Christmas shoppers!
Thank you so much, Greg! Libby spent the whole week editing this video, and it means a lot that you’re giving her credit for it. RUclips really is like a time capsule, preserving these moments for everyone to see. Let’s keep creating more memories! :)
A question, my friend. I have to record a play next month. I wanted to ask you a question about recording it. What do you recommend on a small budget? I plan to put a Zoom H1 or a Tascam DR-07X near the stage. Thanks
Nice. It's a surprise to see that you still carry around all that gear from country to country. Anyway, I still love my F3 with the LOM Usi's because it's so easy to take anywhere in a sling bag. But I'd love to take a closer look at the FR-AV2, X6, and the H2e. Thanks for another great video, and I wish you and Libby a very happy Xmas.
Hi Simon! Happy New Year and Merry Christmas to you too! We don’t carry all our gear around anymore. We have a house here in Thailand where we store everything and only take the gear we need for our trips. The rest stays in storage. But next year, we’re buying a camper van, so we’ll have to really think about what to bring with us!
I recently bought the F6 after careful consideration and I'm loving it. The headphone output might be a bit on the noisy side but the ability to use NPF batteries is a huge advantage. I can record all day on a single NP-F970 battery.
I have H1n. I'm pro amateur so that is enough for me. Device is very cheap plastic thinking to add some matte soft adhesive tape to some places to avoid that plastic slippery feeling. I have soft black tape over the volume buttons because buttons move and makes noise when device is handled. Just wondering is H1 Essential any better build quality than H1n?
Question about the Tascam FR-AV2: Can you record through both of the xlr inputs and the 3.5 mm input simultaneously? I'd love having the option of using the mikroUši to record stereo through the 3.5mm input, while simultaneously using the 2 XLR inputs to record stereo with another set of mics.
Hi! Great question! The Tascam is a two-channel recorder, so it’s either XLR or LINE, not both at the same time. However, we made a video about the Zoom H2 Essential, which can record simultaneously using the front microphones while the LINE input goes to the other channel.
Hey just as a heads up, the Centerence XY microphones are meant to be used with a recorder with the XLR ports facing each other so they would work with a Zoom H1 XLR or Centerence’s own recorder which is discontinued but not an F3 or the FR-AV2.
@ Hi! So, the Zoom H1 XLR has the its XLR ports turned 90 degrees so that the locks face out like this but the F3 and most other recorders have them lined up parallel like this ôô. The Centerence mics are designed to originally be used with the Centerence Mixerface which has its ports facing like this
Got it! That’s a bummer. So, they won’t face each other in an XY position and create a weird-looking AB setup. Thank you so much for pointing this out.
@@FreeToUseSounds Yeah I tried. I ended up making my own Usi Pro direct adapter that works to create XY but I had to cut up a neutrik connecteor to make it, haha. It’s ugly but it works.
You put in so much work and it shows. Hands down you have the best audio recording gear reviews on RUclips. I’m a music producer and have been considering the f6 but I think you’re right.,. I’ll wait until they drop the update for it. I have the Sennheiser Ambeo headset for my phone and am pretty happy with what it provides. Thank you so much for putting in so much time with all this gear.
Thank you so much for saying that-it really means a lot to us. It would be great to see a new version of the F6, like a powerhouse that still retains all the features but with an improved screen, dual ports, and easy channel linking like on the MixPre, etc.
I'm wondering if Zoom is planning to introduce a successor to the F6 soon. I have a Zoom F3, and I’ll need to do some comparative microphone testing soon, so I need more channels. Does anyone have any information on whether Zoom or Tascam is planning to release a new multitrack recorder?
Hello! Which headphones do you use for monitoring the recorder on the street, and which do you think you should buy? Wired earbuds for 20-30 dollars are very interesting for your opinion, it will help me a lot in sound recording
Olá amigo. Sou Luiz Antonio do Brasil inscrito no seu canal. Uso o Zoom H1Essential, mas captura muito ruido na gravação mesmo em Studio. Você tem alguma dica pra diminuir a captação de ruido? Você poderia fazer um vídeo de como fazer a melhor configuração no Zoom H1Essential. Obrigado.
Olá, Luiz! Já fizemos dois vídeos com esse gravador e não tivemos problemas com ruído, mas talvez minha tolerância ao ruído seja um pouco diferente. Além disso, também não o uso em um ambiente de estúdio. Infelizmente, não há configurações no gravador que possam mudar drasticamente o resultado que você deseja. Se você não estiver satisfeito com os resultados, talvez a melhor opção seja fazer um upgrade.
You should take another look at the Zoom M4 Mictrack. I rolled the dice on one recently when it was on sale and it seems Zoom fixed the EMF noise issue. To my ears, it is basically an F3 but with in-built cardioid mics, line-in and combo jacks. The form factor makes it look like some kind of karaoke toy microphone, but it is extremely comfortable to hold compared to the rectangular recorders. The mics are fixed in XY, but I really like that they are protected by the cage and that it is the right size for a lot of existing covers. Great video!
Heya! So glad to hear you’re enjoying the Mic Track. When we come across a shop that carries it, we’ll definitely take another look. Thank you so much for watching and supporting us!
Thank you 🙏 very much for this video. I still own and use the indestructible TASCAM DR-100MKIII recorder. It has a function that is completely indispensable for me. It is the automatic line level recording. The recording starts automatically at a certain volume and stops as soon as the volume falls below this level. The combination of everything being recorded five seconds before the recording is essential for me. The question that arises for me except the Tascam successor so the Portacapture series does have this function, right? Not even the little TASCAM FR-AV2, right? I asked Sound Devices via their support team about it several times. They politely replied that they might think about it, but so far as I know this function is apparently not yet available. Have a great Christmas and thanks again for all your efforts. A "Servus"🖖 from Bavaria.
Yes, this is a great function that the new Zoom H2 Essential has, and maybe we’ll see it in a firmware update for the Tascam FR AV2. However, the X8 and X6 already have it. If you’re interested in reading more about it, you can find details on page 34 of the X6 User Manual. Liebe Grüße nach Bayern und frohe Feiertage sowie ein gutes neues Jahr!
I'd give the Zoom M4 Mictrak another look if I were you. It's my most used recorder because it does everything quite well. It is cheaply made and all the label names are long gone, but I've beat the crap out of it and it's somehow still working. Accepting native TC allows me to easily sync my footage in post with a few clicks - it's 100% frame accurate every time. This feature alone saves me a TON of time in the edit. Oh, and Zoom fixed the RF interference issue that was present in the first batch of defective units (including the one you initially tested)
Tascam is more versatile because not only does it have 3.5mm line input but it also accepts WIRED timecode. If you intend to use TC, you have to purchase a proprietary wireless generator and Bluetooth adapter which are not only expensive, but very limiting. Smart money buys the Tascam.
Good points! Let’s also mention that the Tascam offers MS decoding and dual ports, which are fantastic features. However, the F3 is more rugged, and the sound quality of both recorders is excellent. Ultimately, it’s about what works best for you and whether the features align with your needs. With the F3, you get a slimmed-down race car, while the Tascam feels more like a comfortable camper van. :)
Hi Marcel and Libby, thanks again for another video. We did miss you in youtube the time you were away! Are you still using the ulanzi mt-49 or what stands are you using lately? Maybe another video for all the grip gear you use? Merry Christmas to you!
Hello Manuel! Thank you so much for your feedback! We thought about making an update video about the Ulanzi. Yes, I still use it. You see it in the H2 Essential video as well. Great piece of gear.
If you take a 1K sweep from say -30db to 0db, play it from a speaker, and record it in both 24-bit and 32-bit float, on some of those float recorders you will note more harmonics (distortion) in the 32-bit float. It isn't doing what you think it's doing. Sorry. For field recording, I'd stick wit 24-bit and make sure limiters aren't engaged or signal processing.
Hi! Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and comment. Would it be possible for you to make a RUclips video about it and include a few sound samples for us to check out?
@@FreeToUseSounds Yes, I'm working on that now. Hoping to get it done by Jan 1st. You can check this out yourself. Record a sweep in both 24-bit and 32-bit float and then open it up in Sonic Visualizer, or something like it, and look at the harmonics. You can also do other types of analysis. Generally, you might find more dynamic range in 32-bit float but less SNR. Again, it's impossible for 32-bit float itself to effect audio quality from a microphone. You can read in say the ES9826 ADC chip spec where they write, "The ES9826 introduces a new optional Auto Ranging Enhancement (ARE) function that broadens the dynamic range of the source material while maintaining audio integrity". This chips take the signal post pre-amp, so it can only be through signal processing that they do this. Anyway, new ADC chips seem to have similar processing functions. Which is FINE, if you want that ease of use. If you can't hear the difference (which I can't). But if you're serous about it, you should understand it is there. There is no free lunch. I write about it in my "Microphone Clipping, The Three Types Explained" essay on Medium which you could google. Cheers!
The 32 bit float recorder you showed the most of you didn't even talk about! The DJI Mic 2. Much smaller than any of the other options and can be triggered remotely. On the negative side I have had interference issues ruin recordings when used with some external mics when the Mic 2s are connected to the Pocket 3. It is also more work to sync the 2 mono recordings (from 2 Mic 2s) in post than using a single recorder that will do stereo. On a separate note, the iRig Mic XY doesn't sound too promising with 22dBA self noise according to iRig's webpage.
How big is the difference between the mixpre and the tascam x6 for exemple, in sound quality? I mean the preamps. I'm starting to work on an independent feature film and I tried to work with my tascam DR-70 but the noise floor is VERY high so I just can't work with it, sounds very bad. I was looking for a budget 32 bit float option. I don't have a big budget, but I'm tryng to make it as professional as possible. Thank you!
Hi! What microphones are you thinking of using? And what about XLR cables? When it comes to noise performance, most of the newer recorders are perfectly fine. However, Sound Devices stands out because their MixPre series uses Kashmir preamps. That’s definitely a big plus. But the real question is: what’s the noise ratio of your microphone, and where will you be recording? If you’re filming outdoors with a lot of background ambience you won't notice much of a difference but reliability and trust in your device become key factors. So, ask yourself this question: Can you trust an X6 or a Sound Devices recorder to work reliably for days and night?
@@FreeToUseSounds Thx for your reply. I tried it with 2 mics, t.bone EM 9900 and the Audio Technica AT897. On both of em I have the same high noise... I have some inside shots but mostly outside. I will use lots of foley sounds but I'm want to keep it as organic as possible. I have experience in sound recording and mixing, I've been doing this the last 18 years in my studio, but when it comes to recorders, it's another story. Thx
1. Mixpres are famous for their quiet preamps. 2. DR-70 is not in the Micpre class but is very quiet. When you record outside there's always some ambient noise. Distant traffic, wind noise etc. For a long time I mistook it for mics' or recorder self noise. I had to happen on a very still night to understand how quiet DR-70 really is. Trying my new, allegedly low noise mics I cranked it up to the max. High+ setting, knobs all the way up. Outcome: the recorder is quiet and mics are too 😊 But it was incredibly quiet night in the suburbs. No wind whatsoever.. Usually there's always some wind (in grass, leaves) "hiss" at lower settings.
@@pmfalcman thx for your reply! I tried the DR-70 with AT897 ant EM9900 and I get the same result in controlled environment (in sound treated studfio) and that "hiss" is very annoying. That's why I thought a 32-bit float recorder would be better for film production.
@@E.R.U.42 - first of all, 32-bit will not help with the noise issue. It may help with clipping when sudden, unexpected loud noise appears. So it helps when sounds are loud, not quiet. The noise issue is either caused by faulty cables (what Marcel mentioned), faulty recorder, improper gain staging - mics are too far from sound source for its loudness. Usually, with higher class recorders, the mics are the limiting factor. You will hear mic's self noise first. Unless there's no problems with your gear AND we are talking about Tascam DR-70D, not DR-07 you should work on positioning the mics as close to your talent as possible. Maybe use lavalier mics? If your mic is a 1 m away from you, you're talking in normal voice and you aim to get -12 dB recording level you WILL get ambient noise no matter what. Borrow or rent a Micpre 3 (24-bit!) or a Zoom F8 and check how your noise issue looks like with it. Anyway you will need to remove some ambient/background noise in post. No matter what recorder you use. IF you decide to buy a Micpre after all, get a 24-bit version. No point spending tok much on 32-bit unless you really need it (loud sounds). 32-bit is not a miracke solution. If you record a quiet sound or frombfar away, raising levels in postproduction WILL raise the noise as well. No miracles :)
Hey, I have question. Im playing kind of meditative concerts. Using gong (90 cm ) gongdrum (100cm) singing, shrutibox. So levels of sound starts from really low to very loud. Sounds ofc are very spacey, with a big reverbs, and also trying to find places for my concerts with a great echo. Im trying to always record my gigs to share them on the web or to have learning material for myself. Now im using zoom h4n pro, but because of dynamics Im thinking about some device with 32 bit recording. What would you suggest to go for?
I’ve been following you for a while but not commented. I like your channel! Which of these or other recorder combo with microphone can render environmental sound with a feeling of depth from close sounds and farther away. In reality I hear sounds close to me clear and dynamic and sounds further away less dynamic and the tones are more a mix into the distant. But a mic or recorder flattens the sound render almost no or little space between close and far away. I would like to show that depth in audio. How can that be done? Greetings from Sweden (commercial photographer and videographer).
I got a mixpre 6 (the original one 24bit), with 8 years of use, I record field recordings (BP4025, clippys AB, or earsights AB, sometimes up to 4 channel) music concerts (stereo and multitrack), all kind of sound stuff, electromagnetic with lom or soma, hydrophones (JrF), geophones, piezos, etc. And got used to check volumes and gain (as I did since tape reel-to-reel, DAT, minidisk) do you think the mixpre6 II with 32bit is worth the investment? Quite happy with my setup, 96/24...
Hi! This is a fantastic recorder, and if you’re thinking of upgrading, it’s definitely a solid choice with no downsides. As I mentioned in another video, I like to future-proof myself and our recordings-who knows how technology might evolve? Maybe in the future, 32-bit recordings will become the standard. Of course, I could be wrong, but I’d rather be safe than left behind.
If you're happy with your gear - don't change it. Unless you have problems with unexpected high level sound bursts. That's where 32-bit really helps. Now the technology is new. Unless you find setting levels annoyung I'd wait till it matures and develop.
i have purchased the FR-AV 2 seven multiple times and after a few days they cancel my purchase and say there are NO MORE in stock and the next batch will be expected within a month. i despise it now because it disappointed me seven times.
I love my Zoom F6, but man, I want some combo jacks. I have piezo mics that have 1/4" plugs and I just really don't like getting stuck in adapter world. That's why I'm eyeballing that Tascam. But dang, it would be nice if Zoom did that upgrade, hint hint.
@@FreeToUseSounds lavaliers are mic not line level they need plugin power 3-9v. To use 3.5 mic you'd need an xlr to 3.5 adapter to with voltage reducer from phantom power to plugin power but adds those bits of gear...
@@petercofrancesco9812 Hello Peter, You can use low voltage Laval devices via the LINE input on any recorder that has a plug-in power supply. In our video about the Zoom H2 Essential or Zoom H1 Essential, for example, we show it with the Roland CS 10 EM binaural microphone. Now if you were to use a low voltage Lavalier you could do that too. Therefore, no XLR adapter is required for low voltage microphones. Low voltage podcast microphones also work. Simply connect it to the LINE-In and you're ready to go. With the H2 Essential you can switch on and off the plugin power while with the Tascam you can even choose between 2.5 and 5 volts.
@@FreeToUseSounds The Zoom isn't strictly a line input. If you look closely at it there's "line"/icon of a mic. So the lav is sending mic level into an input that does both.
Hi! I just checked the Sound Devices Service Center website and saw that the one in France is still active, but the Frankfurt location is closed. Maybe it’s worth reaching out to them so they can update the list.
@FreeToUseSounds thank for reaching and helping out. I (from germany) contacted Sounddevices via the website and a uk technician answered me and told me to send my mixpre3ii to the UK by myself. Also to do the customs declaration by myself, +fees +customs duties +2x non-EU shipping + the expected fixed service fee and so on.After reading your reply I hope the service center in France is an option. Is Sounddevices OK? The website service center list isn't updated. Still a bit confused about this service experience so far.
@@tonehtheories Sorry about this. I only asked if I had any technical questions, which was great, but I don’t have any personal experience with repair services. They are pretty active on Instagram too, though I understand not everyone wants to use it. Before you reach out to France, could you give Ambient Munich a call? They sell Sound Devices products and may offer repair services. I hope they can help.
hey, i currently use the x8 but i'm considering to send it back to get either a f3 oder the fr-av2 because i think i don't need that many inputs as i just want to get started and stereo or m/s recordings will do it for me. also i'm quite annoyed by the handling noise from the tascam x8 and the form factor is also a thing... so as you mentioned the hack with the iRig XY mics with the fr-av2 this was exactly the configuration i was looking for! do you think this will also work with the f3? i couldn't find anyone who does this, on reddit there are a few people talking about modifying the f3 into a handheld version but not with these microphones. because my only issue with the tascam would be the extra 100€ and the fact that it is not considered a good "cold weather device"... tascam claims that it is not made for use under 0 degrees celcius which is a bit of a bummer... i just came from a trip in sweden and i was recording some ambience in the snow with the x8 and i believe i could here some clicks and pops from the plastic in the cold... nothing got damaged as far as i can tell, but this would be a real issue. i would love to hear from you if you already could try this configuration! also i really appreciate the effort you guys put into these videos, its a real treasure for all the people who want to get into field recording! big love, sehr gut
Hi Jonathan! Thank you so much for watching. Please do not purchase the XY microphone. It will not be compatible with the F3 or FR AV2 due to the different placement of the XLR inputs within the recorder. If you were to plug it in, the connectors would not align properly. A RUclips search for "Zoom F3 and Centrance" will reveal a video demonstrating an incorrect configuration of this setup. :(
@@FreeToUseSounds yeah i know the issue with the centrance mics, but did you test it with the iRig XY from IK Multimedia? when i look at their site, the recorder these mics were made for seems to have the same direction of the connectors as the F3 or the AV2 and what about the temperature issue? did you experience such?
@ I often record two camera interviews with lav and boom mics and go straight from mics into camera(s).That’s been fine, but I’m looking to up my audio game. I’ve thought of instead of going to camera, going into a mixpre (to have more control, better preamps, and 32bit ability, then send out to the cameras for redundancy and flexibility in post. Curious if the mixpre can send out two channels (hard right hard left panned?)
Ha! Yes we did, and we discussed it, but since we don’t use it for field recording, we thought it wasn’t necessary to mention. But you’re right about the title-it definitely should’ve been included. Now I feel like I should’ve mentioned it! :)
My Tascam X6 got fried after 3-4 months of use and my Zoom F3 is still going strong. The best 32bit float mic that didn't make your list is the Comica VM40.
Hi! Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. I hope they sent you a replacement. I checked out this microphone, but it doesn’t quite align with the type of work we do.
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
Which Recorder Is Your Favorite?
Don't know. I got many as well.
Well I only recently got the Tascam FR-AV2 and the Zoom H2 Ess - but The Zoom H1Ess and F3 are always in my bag and the Sony PCM A10 is always in my back pocket, so I guess I use these the most. Lots of larger recorders are on the shelf (Sound Devices, Zooms, Tascams etc) but I tend to stick to the EDC smaller models.) Did I mention I like sounds and sound gathering?
First of all, thank you very much. As I wrote in my comment, my current favourite is TASCAM. But I keep looking at Sound Devices. Essential for my setup is the automatic line level recording with additional the five-second pre-recording. So five seconds are additional recorded before the record button was pressed.
Hi!
Many thanks for this extremely useful video!
I have a good experience with the combo h1essesial + clippy mics. but the preamps are questionable in h1E
I think Tascam fr-av2 is the best thing for the portable stereo pair system now. Also maybe the price of fr-av2 will go down that happened with tascam x8
what do you think about zoom H1 XLR (the part of the essential line)?
it could be a good device for the recordings in between of cases for h1E h2E and f3\tascam fr-av2
Thank you!
The recorder that's in my pocket, ready to record. 😉 It used to be my smartphone with a Shure MV88 mic, but in 2025 it's likely to be the Zoom H2e. However, the Tascam FR-AV2 and a slim 10.000 mAh powerbank fits in a Tenba Skyline 4 pouch and may end up as the most used recorder in my kit next year.
The Zoom F6 sounds amazing. I can't stand how you constantly need to update the time/date on it. It's enough to make me want to jump ship to another product. It's an incredibly annoying problem imo. The preamps sound great on them. The Zoom F3 came out a little later and it doesn't seem to have that issue.
What do you mean?
It's a bug
@sarge3294 Thanks :)
F6 will lose date/time if not used for a long period of time. To fix-plug F6 into USB-C charger and turn F6 ON. Leave on USB-C charger and turned ON for 12-24 hours. F6 will now retain date/time. Repeat every few months to ensure F6 does not lose date/time.
There is a killer feature on the Tuscam FR-AV2 that you didn't mention: it has a built in timecode generator. This is a huge feature for video; it enables you to sync audio and video in a breeze!
My H1n's, H2n's and Tascam DR-05's had a big smile on their displays when they heard your words at 15:52 . Together we wish you both a merry christmas 🎄. Viele Grüße - Til.
Hi Tim! We hope you have a wonderful and happy New Year! Next year, we’ll be back in Europe!
Watched your another video about zoom f3. Bought it later after watching. No regret at all. The ease of use really helpful for beginners
Awesome, so glad you like it!
This is such an informative and timely video! Not only does it reflect your experiences with the equipment, but the amount of excellent footage you could draw from to reinforce your experiences is a testament to the quality of Libby’s videography. An excellent way to end the year, and just in time for the last-minute Christmas shoppers!
Thank you so much, Greg! Libby spent the whole week editing this video, and it means a lot that you’re giving her credit for it. RUclips really is like a time capsule, preserving these moments for everyone to see. Let’s keep creating more memories! :)
A question, my friend. I have to record a play next month. I wanted to ask you a question about recording it. What do you recommend on a small budget? I plan to put a Zoom H1 or a Tascam DR-07X near the stage. Thanks
Nice. It's a surprise to see that you still carry around all that gear from country to country.
Anyway, I still love my F3 with the LOM Usi's because it's so easy to take anywhere in a sling bag. But I'd love to take a closer look at the FR-AV2, X6, and the H2e.
Thanks for another great video, and I wish you and Libby a very happy Xmas.
Hi Simon! Happy New Year and Merry Christmas to you too! We don’t carry all our gear around anymore. We have a house here in Thailand where we store everything and only take the gear we need for our trips. The rest stays in storage. But next year, we’re buying a camper van, so we’ll have to really think about what to bring with us!
@@FreeToUseSounds Oh very cool. Should be lots of fun with the camper van. 👍
I recently bought the F6 after careful consideration and I'm loving it. The headphone output might be a bit on the noisy side but the ability to use NPF batteries is a huge advantage. I can record all day on a single NP-F970 battery.
Yes, this is a great setup-almost like the interchangeable battery packs people have been wishing for. The F6 already has that feature!
I have H1n. I'm pro amateur so that is enough for me. Device is very cheap plastic thinking to add some matte soft adhesive tape to some places to avoid that plastic slippery feeling. I have soft black tape over the volume buttons because buttons move and makes noise when device is handled. Just wondering is H1 Essential any better build quality than H1n?
Question about the Tascam FR-AV2:
Can you record through both of the xlr inputs and the 3.5 mm input simultaneously?
I'd love having the option of using the mikroUši to record stereo through the 3.5mm input, while simultaneously using the 2 XLR inputs to record stereo with another set of mics.
Hi! Great question! The Tascam is a two-channel recorder, so it’s either XLR or LINE, not both at the same time. However, we made a video about the Zoom H2 Essential, which can record simultaneously using the front microphones while the LINE input goes to the other channel.
@@FreeToUseSounds Thanks so much! :)
Definitely the Sound Devices MixPre-6 II since I already have all the others.
Great recorder!
Hey just as a heads up, the Centerence XY microphones are meant to be used with a recorder with the XLR ports facing each other so they would work with a Zoom H1 XLR or Centerence’s own recorder which is discontinued but not an F3 or the FR-AV2.
Hi, I’m not sure I understand. The Zoom H1 XLR has the same directionality as the F3 or FR AV2, or is there something I’m missing?
@ Hi! So, the Zoom H1 XLR has the its XLR ports turned 90 degrees so that the locks face out like this but the F3 and most other recorders have them lined up parallel like this ôô. The Centerence mics are designed to originally be used with the Centerence Mixerface which has its ports facing like this
Got it! That’s a bummer. So, they won’t face each other in an XY position and create a weird-looking AB setup. Thank you so much for pointing this out.
@@FreeToUseSounds Yeah I tried. I ended up making my own Usi Pro direct adapter that works to create XY but I had to cut up a neutrik connecteor to make it, haha. It’s ugly but it works.
You put in so much work and it shows. Hands down you have the best audio recording gear reviews on RUclips.
I’m a music producer and have been considering the f6 but I think you’re right.,. I’ll wait until they drop the update for it. I have the Sennheiser Ambeo headset for my phone and am pretty happy with what it provides.
Thank you so much for putting in so much time with all this gear.
Thank you so much for saying that-it really means a lot to us. It would be great to see a new version of the F6, like a powerhouse that still retains all the features but with an improved screen, dual ports, and easy channel linking like on the MixPre, etc.
Fantastic video Marcel, thank you for taking the time to film it,
I didn’t film it-I’m just sitting here talking :) Libby handled all the filming and editing work.
I'm wondering if Zoom is planning to introduce a successor to the F6 soon. I have a Zoom F3, and I’ll need to do some comparative microphone testing soon, so I need more channels. Does anyone have any information on whether Zoom or Tascam is planning to release a new multitrack recorder?
As always, very informative and infectious enthusiasm. Season's greeting to you both. x
Thank you so much!!!
Good to see your posting regularly again, enjoyed the video.
Thank you so much for showing up too! :)
Hello!
Which headphones do you use for monitoring the recorder on the street, and which do you think you should buy? Wired earbuds for 20-30 dollars are very interesting for your opinion, it will help me a lot in sound recording
I loved this roundup. For some mysterious reason, I am captivated by the beauty of recorders. Would enjoy to try some that you showcased here :)
Thank you so much for watching!!
Olá amigo. Sou Luiz Antonio do Brasil inscrito no seu canal. Uso o Zoom H1Essential, mas captura muito ruido na gravação mesmo em Studio. Você tem alguma dica pra diminuir a captação de ruido? Você poderia fazer um vídeo de como fazer a melhor configuração no Zoom H1Essential. Obrigado.
Olá, Luiz!
Já fizemos dois vídeos com esse gravador e não tivemos problemas com ruído, mas talvez minha tolerância ao ruído seja um pouco diferente. Além disso, também não o uso em um ambiente de estúdio.
Infelizmente, não há configurações no gravador que possam mudar drasticamente o resultado que você deseja. Se você não estiver satisfeito com os resultados, talvez a melhor opção seja fazer um upgrade.
You should take another look at the Zoom M4 Mictrack. I rolled the dice on one recently when it was on sale and it seems Zoom fixed the EMF noise issue. To my ears, it is basically an F3 but with in-built cardioid mics, line-in and combo jacks. The form factor makes it look like some kind of karaoke toy microphone, but it is extremely comfortable to hold compared to the rectangular recorders. The mics are fixed in XY, but I really like that they are protected by the cage and that it is the right size for a lot of existing covers. Great video!
Heya! So glad to hear you’re enjoying the Mic Track. When we come across a shop that carries it, we’ll definitely take another look. Thank you so much for watching and supporting us!
Thank you 🙏 very much for this video. I still own and use the indestructible TASCAM DR-100MKIII recorder. It has a function that is completely indispensable for me. It is the automatic line level recording. The recording starts automatically at a certain volume and stops as soon as the volume falls below this level. The combination of everything being recorded five seconds before the recording is essential for me. The question that arises for me except the Tascam successor so the Portacapture series does have this function, right? Not even the little TASCAM FR-AV2, right?
I asked Sound Devices via their support team about it several times. They politely replied that they might think about it, but so far as I know this function is apparently not yet available.
Have a great Christmas and thanks again for all your efforts. A "Servus"🖖 from Bavaria.
Yes, this is a great function that the new Zoom H2 Essential has, and maybe we’ll see it in a firmware update for the Tascam FR AV2. However, the X8 and X6 already have it. If you’re interested in reading more about it, you can find details on page 34 of the X6 User Manual.
Liebe Grüße nach Bayern und frohe Feiertage sowie ein gutes neues Jahr!
I'd give the Zoom M4 Mictrak another look if I were you. It's my most used recorder because it does everything quite well. It is cheaply made and all the label names are long gone, but I've beat the crap out of it and it's somehow still working. Accepting native TC allows me to easily sync my footage in post with a few clicks - it's 100% frame accurate every time. This feature alone saves me a TON of time in the edit. Oh, and Zoom fixed the RF interference issue that was present in the first batch of defective units (including the one you initially tested)
I was thinking about picking up the Zoom H2 Essential but after watching your video it is a no brainer for me.
Hey Marcel, what's your opinion on the best between the Zoom F3 and the Tascam FR-AV2.
Tascam is more versatile because not only does it have 3.5mm line input but it also accepts WIRED timecode. If you intend to use TC, you have to purchase a proprietary wireless generator and Bluetooth adapter which are not only expensive, but very limiting. Smart money buys the Tascam.
Good points! Let’s also mention that the Tascam offers MS decoding and dual ports, which are fantastic features. However, the F3 is more rugged, and the sound quality of both recorders is excellent. Ultimately, it’s about what works best for you and whether the features align with your needs. With the F3, you get a slimmed-down race car, while the Tascam feels more like a comfortable camper van. :)
Marcel, it looks like the Tascam is almost twice the price of the F3. I wish I knew more about sound recording.
how is dji mic 2 compared to those recorders?
Hi Marcel and Libby, thanks again for another video. We did miss you in youtube the time you were away! Are you still using the ulanzi mt-49 or what stands are you using lately? Maybe another video for all the grip gear you use?
Merry Christmas to you!
Hello Manuel! Thank you so much for your feedback! We thought about making an update video about the Ulanzi. Yes, I still use it. You see it in the H2 Essential video as well. Great piece of gear.
If you take a 1K sweep from say -30db to 0db, play it from a speaker, and record it in both 24-bit and 32-bit float, on some of those float recorders you will note more harmonics (distortion) in the 32-bit float. It isn't doing what you think it's doing. Sorry. For field recording, I'd stick wit 24-bit and make sure limiters aren't engaged or signal processing.
Hi! Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and comment. Would it be possible for you to make a RUclips video about it and include a few sound samples for us to check out?
@@FreeToUseSounds Yes, I'm working on that now. Hoping to get it done by Jan 1st. You can check this out yourself. Record a sweep in both 24-bit and 32-bit float and then open it up in Sonic Visualizer, or something like it, and look at the harmonics. You can also do other types of analysis. Generally, you might find more dynamic range in 32-bit float but less SNR. Again, it's impossible for 32-bit float itself to effect audio quality from a microphone. You can read in say the ES9826 ADC chip spec where they write, "The ES9826 introduces a new optional Auto Ranging Enhancement (ARE) function that broadens the dynamic range of the source material while maintaining audio integrity". This chips take the signal post pre-amp, so it can only be through signal processing that they do this. Anyway, new ADC chips seem to have similar processing functions. Which is FINE, if you want that ease of use. If you can't hear the difference (which I can't). But if you're serous about it, you should understand it is there. There is no free lunch. I write about it in my "Microphone Clipping, The Three Types Explained" essay on Medium which you could google. Cheers!
I love the Sound Devices mix pre-6, it's the perfect little recorder in my opinion!
We love that one too Christian!
The 32 bit float recorder you showed the most of you didn't even talk about! The DJI Mic 2. Much smaller than any of the other options and can be triggered remotely. On the negative side I have had interference issues ruin recordings when used with some external mics when the Mic 2s are connected to the Pocket 3. It is also more work to sync the 2 mono recordings (from 2 Mic 2s) in post than using a single recorder that will do stereo.
On a separate note, the iRig Mic XY doesn't sound too promising with 22dBA self noise according to iRig's webpage.
How big is the difference between the mixpre and the tascam x6 for exemple, in sound quality? I mean the preamps. I'm starting to work on an independent feature film and I tried to work with my tascam DR-70 but the noise floor is VERY high so I just can't work with it, sounds very bad. I was looking for a budget 32 bit float option. I don't have a big budget, but I'm tryng to make it as professional as possible. Thank you!
Hi!
What microphones are you thinking of using? And what about XLR cables?
When it comes to noise performance, most of the newer recorders are perfectly fine. However, Sound Devices stands out because their MixPre series uses Kashmir preamps. That’s definitely a big plus.
But the real question is: what’s the noise ratio of your microphone, and where will you be recording?
If you’re filming outdoors with a lot of background ambience you won't notice much of a difference but reliability and trust in your device become key factors. So, ask yourself this question: Can you trust an X6 or a Sound Devices recorder to work reliably for days and night?
@@FreeToUseSounds Thx for your reply. I tried it with 2 mics, t.bone EM 9900 and the Audio Technica AT897. On both of em I have the same high noise... I have some inside shots but mostly outside. I will use lots of foley sounds but I'm want to keep it as organic as possible. I have experience in sound recording and mixing, I've been doing this the last 18 years in my studio, but when it comes to recorders, it's another story. Thx
1. Mixpres are famous for their quiet preamps.
2. DR-70 is not in the Micpre class but is very quiet. When you record outside there's always some ambient noise. Distant traffic, wind noise etc. For a long time I mistook it for mics' or recorder self noise.
I had to happen on a very still night to understand how quiet DR-70 really is. Trying my new, allegedly low noise mics I cranked it up to the max. High+ setting, knobs all the way up.
Outcome: the recorder is quiet and mics are too 😊
But it was incredibly quiet night in the suburbs. No wind whatsoever..
Usually there's always some wind (in grass, leaves) "hiss" at lower settings.
@@pmfalcman thx for your reply! I tried the DR-70 with AT897 ant EM9900 and I get the same result in controlled environment (in sound treated studfio) and that "hiss" is very annoying. That's why I thought a 32-bit float recorder would be better for film production.
@@E.R.U.42 - first of all, 32-bit will not help with the noise issue. It may help with clipping when sudden, unexpected loud noise appears. So it helps when sounds are loud, not quiet. The noise issue is either caused by faulty cables (what Marcel mentioned), faulty recorder, improper gain staging - mics are too far from sound source for its loudness. Usually, with higher class recorders, the mics are the limiting factor. You will hear mic's self noise first.
Unless there's no problems with your gear AND we are talking about Tascam DR-70D, not DR-07 you should work on positioning the mics as close to your talent as possible.
Maybe use lavalier mics?
If your mic is a 1 m away from you, you're talking in normal voice and you aim to get -12 dB recording level you WILL get ambient noise no matter what.
Borrow or rent a Micpre 3 (24-bit!) or a Zoom F8 and check how your noise issue looks like with it.
Anyway you will need to remove some ambient/background noise in post. No matter what recorder you use.
IF you decide to buy a Micpre after all, get a 24-bit version. No point spending tok much on 32-bit unless you really need it (loud sounds). 32-bit is not a miracke solution. If you record a quiet sound or frombfar away, raising levels in postproduction WILL raise the noise as well. No miracles :)
Hey, I have question. Im playing kind of meditative concerts. Using gong (90 cm ) gongdrum (100cm) singing, shrutibox. So levels of sound starts from really low to very loud. Sounds ofc are very spacey, with a big reverbs, and also trying to find places for my concerts with a great echo. Im trying to always record my gigs to share them on the web or to have learning material for myself. Now im using zoom h4n pro, but because of dynamics Im thinking about some device with 32 bit recording. What would you suggest to go for?
I’ve been following you for a while but not commented. I like your channel!
Which of these or other recorder combo with microphone can render environmental sound with a feeling of depth from close sounds and farther away. In reality I hear sounds close to me clear and dynamic and sounds further away less dynamic and the tones are more a mix into the distant. But a mic or recorder flattens the sound render almost no or little space between close and far away. I would like to show that depth in audio. How can that be done?
Greetings from Sweden (commercial photographer and videographer).
Any idea if the Tascam FR-AV2 will be available in Thailand anytime soon?
Oh this is a good question. Could you give Pro Plugin in Bangkok a call? They may know more.
I got a mixpre 6 (the original one 24bit), with 8 years of use, I record field recordings (BP4025, clippys AB, or earsights AB, sometimes up to 4 channel) music concerts (stereo and multitrack), all kind of sound stuff, electromagnetic with lom or soma, hydrophones (JrF), geophones, piezos, etc. And got used to check volumes and gain (as I did since tape reel-to-reel, DAT, minidisk) do you think the mixpre6 II with 32bit is worth the investment? Quite happy with my setup, 96/24...
Hi!
This is a fantastic recorder, and if you’re thinking of upgrading, it’s definitely a solid choice with no downsides. As I mentioned in another video, I like to future-proof myself and our recordings-who knows how technology might evolve? Maybe in the future, 32-bit recordings will become the standard.
Of course, I could be wrong, but I’d rather be safe than left behind.
If you're happy with your gear - don't change it. Unless you have problems with unexpected high level sound bursts. That's where 32-bit really helps.
Now the technology is new. Unless you find setting levels annoyung I'd wait till it matures and develop.
i have purchased the FR-AV 2 seven multiple times and after a few days they cancel my purchase and say there are NO MORE in stock and the next batch will be expected within a month. i despise it now because it disappointed me seven times.
I love my Zoom F6, but man, I want some combo jacks. I have piezo mics that have 1/4" plugs and I just really don't like getting stuck in adapter world. That's why I'm eyeballing that Tascam. But dang, it would be nice if Zoom did that upgrade, hint hint.
Yes, it would be amazing if they did!
Maybe I misheard or misunderstood. F3 does have XLR Line in.
Hi Peter. Thank you so much for watching. Ah yes, I mean the 3.5 LINE in so you could use a lavalier or in our case the Roland binaural microphones.
@@FreeToUseSounds lavaliers are mic not line level they need plugin power 3-9v. To use 3.5 mic you'd need an xlr to 3.5 adapter to with voltage reducer from phantom power to plugin power but adds those bits of gear...
@@petercofrancesco9812 Hello Peter,
You can use low voltage Laval devices via the LINE input on any recorder that has a plug-in power supply. In our video about the Zoom H2 Essential or Zoom H1 Essential, for example, we show it with the Roland CS 10 EM binaural microphone. Now if you were to use a low voltage Lavalier you could do that too. Therefore, no XLR adapter is required for low voltage microphones. Low voltage podcast microphones also work. Simply connect it to the LINE-In and you're ready to go. With the H2 Essential you can switch on and off the plugin power while with the Tascam you can even choose between 2.5 and 5 volts.
@@FreeToUseSounds The Zoom isn't strictly a line input. If you look closely at it there's "line"/icon of a mic. So the lav is sending mic level into an input that does both.
@@petercofrancesco9812Correct. They do both.
There seems to be no Sounddevices service centre in the EU anymore! Has anybody insights about this?
Hi! I just checked the Sound Devices Service Center website and saw that the one in France is still active, but the Frankfurt location is closed. Maybe it’s worth reaching out to them so they can update the list.
@FreeToUseSounds thank for reaching and helping out. I (from germany) contacted Sounddevices via the website and a uk technician answered me and told me to send my mixpre3ii to the UK by myself. Also to do the customs declaration by myself, +fees +customs duties +2x non-EU shipping + the expected fixed service fee and so on.After reading your reply I hope the service center in France is an option. Is Sounddevices OK? The website service center list isn't updated. Still a bit confused about this service experience so far.
@@tonehtheories Sorry about this. I only asked if I had any technical questions, which was great, but I don’t have any personal experience with repair services. They are pretty active on Instagram too, though I understand not everyone wants to use it. Before you reach out to France, could you give Ambient Munich a call? They sell Sound Devices products and may offer repair services. I hope they can help.
hey, i currently use the x8 but i'm considering to send it back to get either a f3 oder the fr-av2 because i think i don't need that many inputs as i just want to get started and stereo or m/s recordings will do it for me. also i'm quite annoyed by the handling noise from the tascam x8 and the form factor is also a thing... so as you mentioned the hack with the iRig XY mics with the fr-av2 this was exactly the configuration i was looking for! do you think this will also work with the f3? i couldn't find anyone who does this, on reddit there are a few people talking about modifying the f3 into a handheld version but not with these microphones. because my only issue with the tascam would be the extra 100€ and the fact that it is not considered a good "cold weather device"... tascam claims that it is not made for use under 0 degrees celcius which is a bit of a bummer... i just came from a trip in sweden and i was recording some ambience in the snow with the x8 and i believe i could here some clicks and pops from the plastic in the cold... nothing got damaged as far as i can tell, but this would be a real issue.
i would love to hear from you if you already could try this configuration!
also i really appreciate the effort you guys put into these videos, its a real treasure for all the people who want to get into field recording! big love, sehr gut
Hi Jonathan! Thank you so much for watching.
Please do not purchase the XY microphone. It will not be compatible with the F3 or FR AV2 due to the different placement of the XLR inputs within the recorder. If you were to plug it in, the connectors would not align properly.
A RUclips search for "Zoom F3 and Centrance" will reveal a video demonstrating an incorrect configuration of this setup. :(
@@FreeToUseSounds yeah i know the issue with the centrance mics, but did you test it with the iRig XY from IK Multimedia? when i look at their site, the recorder these mics were made for seems to have the same direction of the connectors as the F3 or the AV2
and what about the temperature issue? did you experience such?
With the mixpre 6.. can you send two separate channels out to two separate cameras in?
Hi Tim, I’ve never done this myself, but are you asking if you can use channel 1 and channel 2 as AUX inputs to connect to two cameras?
@ I often record two camera interviews with lav and boom mics and go straight from mics into camera(s).That’s been fine, but I’m looking to up my audio game. I’ve thought of instead of going to camera, going into a mixpre (to have more control, better preamps, and 32bit ability, then send out to the cameras for redundancy and flexibility in post. Curious if the mixpre can send out two channels (hard right hard left panned?)
wishing you and your partner a happy festive season and a Happy healthy 2025 cheers from Australia
Thank you so much, Ronald! Wishing you happy holidays and an amazing 2025 as well! 🎉
I love my Zoom products. I have the original Zoom H2n the new Zoom H2essentials and the Zoom R4.
Thanks so much for sharing, they are great recorders!
thank you so much
Thank you again!
The Tascam FR-AV2 Recorder is the Best for 2025.👍🏿✅
you forgot DJI Mic2
Ha! Yes we did, and we discussed it, but since we don’t use it for field recording, we thought it wasn’t necessary to mention. But you’re right about the title-it definitely should’ve been included. Now I feel like I should’ve mentioned it! :)
My Tascam X6 got fried after 3-4 months of use and my Zoom F3 is still going strong.
The best 32bit float mic that didn't make your list is the Comica VM40.
Hi! Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. I hope they sent you a replacement. I checked out this microphone, but it doesn’t quite align with the type of work we do.