I’m glad you made this. I have the P8 and it’s been sitting there and I had zero desire to make a vide on it. You did, and now I don’t have to. Great video man! Well done!
I think they both do just fine for what they are aimed at. I have the Podtrak8 for my podcasting and the L-8 for music production and for when I am doing something with a video component. What sold me on the Podtrak8 was the smaller size, battery operation for field use, and the price, but I'd probably be happy with either one. It would be nice if Zoom would upgrade the Podtrak8 to 24 bit/48K though, to make it a more all around mixer/recorder, but I didn't wait, I just bought the L-8 too. Oh well.
Well explained! I wanted to switch a while back from roadcaster pro to the P8.. I came to the same conclusion. Rodecaster pro offers more for me then the zoom P8.
Great video, well pointed out the key advantages for the P8 with the on air button, the marker, etc. I think one of the biggest feature differences (and one of the biggest flaws with the P8) is that on the P8, if you want to use the bluetooth connection to include a remote guest (with an adapter that’s 50$ which shrinks the price difference by 50%), it occupies the trrs port. It’s either-or, while with the Rodecaster Pro it’s both. What it means is that while both can handle 7 podcast participants, with the Rodecaster you can include not 2, but 3 remote guests, which is huge. On the P8 it’s only 2, which makes me wonder why you would buy it for more than twice as much than the P4, while that can only record 2 remote guest in the same way as the P8 does. And yes, the USB-multitrack…
Just bought the P8 last night and this is my first video on it I've watched on RUclips. Good video . I bought this to record outside the DAW environment from my Roland SF 404 MK 2. Then export the wave files to a DAW environment . I had the zoom live it was trash 🗑. The sample rate is important however I have 14 days to decide if im keeping this or trade it for the SSL UAD SOLO, which would place me back in a DAW environment.
I went with the Podtrak, because I got a great deal for an open box for under $300. Zoom has dropped the price substantially, and it's now under $400 almost everywhere. I tried the Tascam Mixcast 4, and this actually won out because of the ability to mix onboard. I found the sound quality to be pretty close on both. This Rode was never on the table due to cost, especially since I wanted to get my feet wet first. I got this and the Podtrak P4 (with bluetooth dongle) for the price of the Rodecaster alone. So, I guess all in with Zoom! Ha! Having fun with both versions. Unfortunately, it does seem Zoom won't be offering any updates for higher bit recording.
Is there a (minus-1)-mix on every headphone output possible at the rode? Or is it just on the Bluetooth- or mobile track possible? I mean, this minus-1-mix thing is outstanding feature because alot of people are struggling with typical issues arisen from feedback or routing-back-the-wrong-path... Is there such thing on the Zoom?
Worth noting is also the advanced edit mode for the effects on the RCP, allowing for further fine tuning the onboard effects as you learn more. The sound pad on the P8 also has a small annoying constraint on file type and bitrate of sound files added, which sometimes requires extra work to insert new effects for the show. That being said, owning both I would wish the RCP had the preamp of the P8. A side note: did I miss you coming back to the EIN in the video? Keep up the good work 🤘🏼!
Nice review. I'm looking at updating my audio equipment. I'm using the Zoom PodTrak4 and I love it along with the Shure SM58. But that Rodecaster Pro certainly has my interest.
I would like to suggest that you edit the description for your original RODEcaster Pro video to add a comment that updates have addressed issue(s), plus add a link to this video so people can see your updated opinion and testing of the unit if they land on your old video.
Great video I just wanted to ask is there an option to set a delay on the audio output for when syncing with cameras. I’ve been through the manual and can’t see anything I know the rodecaster does Ideally need the 6 mic inputs.
I bought the L-8 first, but it didn't have the ability to send phantom power to an individual mic (I run a mix of mics in my studio, some of which require phantom). The ONLY reason I didn't go with the RCP is the limited number of inputs. I have a podcast client that comes in and needs five mics- automatically killed the idea of the RCP. The other thing I discovered was that the P8 doesn't output discreet audio, so you're unable to adjust individual mics in post....or so I thought. If you record directly to the SD card, it DOES provide each source individually....I use it with OBS and haven't had problems with a sync drift as of yet...
How would you choose between P8 and Podtrak P4? For the Podtrak I like the sound pads and portability and i do a solo podcast, so I think that one makes the most sense, especially for price point. But, i may be looking at a decent mixer I could connect to p4 at a later time. Thanks for providing your feedback.
The Rodecaster with the new firmware updates from a few months back just killed the P8 for me. DAW integration with working midi faders (obv. non motorized,) proper advanced effect controls. So no more only a on and off switch for certain processing but full control over compressors and such. For the best sound in the unit, the Rodecaster wins easily hands down no competition.
DO NOT get a cloudlifter WIT an sm7db. It has one built in. Also the Rodecaster has more than enough gain to drive an original sm7b...so save some money
Do you know if i can use Track 6 to get sound from my PC via the Podtrak from my PA? I want to have the PA Monitors connected to the Podtrak. Thansk for response!
Well...less samples over the same amount of time means that eventually the smaller sample will lag behind. Most video editing software will upsample...but not always the best option
I wanted to ask if you can do a stream showing “what would be the best way to connect a Focusrite scarlet 2i2 3rd gen to a Rodecaster pro” The use case would be for adding additional XLR microphones. Some options would be via loopback ( virtual audio interface) ,various outputs from 2i2 to TRRS input on the Rodecaster pro, or using the 2i2’s output jacks. Lastly, headphones output from the 2i2 to Rodecaster pro. The Rodecaster would be the main unit. This would all connect to a MacBook pro via usb from the rodecaster pro.
Wouldnt really work great, as you would be using line outs...at line level...into an non-line level input. Cant guarantee how that would sound. It should be ok...but all the mics plugged into the Scarlett would be one signal...instead of multiple... It would be an odd setup
I always liked Zoom gear, and never thought about Rode. But in these offerings, Rode is sticking it's neck out for the consumer, and Zoom is laughing at the consumer. Try plugging 6 XLR cables and 6 headphones on TOP of the Zoom and see what you think while trying to mix a live podcast. What a slap in the face to all of us by Zoom. Screw them for this offering. Rode, you have a new huge fan, thank you!! (I bought the Rode, had to!). 🤘🎸
Greetings Dark Corner Studios, I’ve just acquired the Zoom PodTrak P8. All-in-All it’s a good unit-save one issue I have a question about. While the preamp noise floor can be low (depending upon which dynamic / condenser mic is used), it can add quite a bit of noise when the compressor / de-esser is on. So… Q. Although there is 70dB of gain, have you tried using a ‘mic activator’ with a dynamic mic so the mic preamp gain can be lowered and, thus, when turning on the compressor / de-esser the noise won’t be so prominent? yYM
Did some work for a local lodge, without pay. They gave me an equipment grant of $500. I found Sweet Water had an open box P8 that sold for $501 which included tax and shipping. Should be here tomorrow. I am axious to get it setup and start playing so I can be ready for my Friday evening show. Being an equipment junkie is expensive :)
You need a DI box in order to do that. It works fine. I use a DI box to connect my guitar to the rodecaster pro. Because rodecaster pro doesn’t have 1/4 instrument input.
@@giraffey8974 Great...!! That is exactly what I thought... my concern was wether it would work as well as it does with voice. Thank you very much guys. Stay well.
Usually because they go full on and invest in a podcast that they aren't willing to follow through with. In the grand scheme of things...the RCP is an ok interface...especially since they updated their drivers. But from a studio perspective...you can find much better interfaces.
@@DarkCornerStudios Spot on. I think the Motu M2 is a very fine interface and while Audient's Evo 4 is a hunk of plastic and quirky to use the audio quality is smooth. Supposedly you can do a Rube Goldberg mix-minus setup with them but for most people just buying the P4 will give you that without the hassles.
@@DarkCornerStudios What would be a good example of a studio grade podcast audio interface. I have a XR16, but I was thinking of getting one of these 'dedicated' podcast consoles you compared in this review.
This is a bit of a manic remark but the thumbnail shows the Rode on the left and the PodTrak on the right but the title shows the reverse. I know, it sounds ridiculous but it confuses my mind 😂
Not your best bet asking for free handouts. You realize the amount of work that goes into getting to a point that you can get them for a video? Also...there are a tonne of recording options that aren't this expensive
@@DarkCornerStudios my apologies l realise my joke must have come across as too dry. In Africa these gadgets come at very high prices never mind the exchange rate. Most of us, therefore, rely on reviews from abroad to make decisions to import as not so many here have ever had the chance to test such products. Anyway great video and all the best. I do hv quite some equipment but like many am at tht crossroads of decisions on the best way to go, thanks for your trouble. I have watched your full video and subscribed so l guess tht puts a smile on your hard work😅 oh ya and another thing, l have liked the video
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I’m glad you made this. I have the P8 and it’s been sitting there and I had zero desire to make a vide on it. You did, and now I don’t have to. Great video man! Well done!
Thanks!
There are a few tests I missed...in case you ever get a hankering.
Good to know I can meet your standard!
That's funny. Tks for being honest.
Really hope you make one. Love your work.
Can I have it please ? 🙂. but seriously I really think I need something like this.
DUDE!
:(
I think they both do just fine for what they are aimed at. I have the Podtrak8 for my podcasting and the L-8 for music production and for when I am doing something with a video component. What sold me on the Podtrak8 was the smaller size, battery operation for field use, and the price, but I'd probably be happy with either one. It would be nice if Zoom would upgrade the Podtrak8 to 24 bit/48K though, to make it a more all around mixer/recorder, but I didn't wait, I just bought the L-8 too. Oh well.
Thanks for helping me make my decision 👍🏽
Well explained! I wanted to switch a while back from roadcaster pro to the P8.. I came to the same conclusion. Rodecaster pro offers more for me then the zoom P8.
Great video, well pointed out the key advantages for the P8 with the on air button, the marker, etc. I think one of the biggest feature differences (and one of the biggest flaws with the P8) is that on the P8, if you want to use the bluetooth connection to include a remote guest (with an adapter that’s 50$ which shrinks the price difference by 50%), it occupies the trrs port. It’s either-or, while with the Rodecaster Pro it’s both. What it means is that while both can handle 7 podcast participants, with the Rodecaster you can include not 2, but 3 remote guests, which is huge. On the P8 it’s only 2, which makes me wonder why you would buy it for more than twice as much than the P4, while that can only record 2 remote guest in the same way as the P8 does. And yes, the USB-multitrack…
Just bought the P8 last night and this is my first video on it I've watched on RUclips. Good video . I bought this to record outside the DAW environment from my Roland SF 404 MK 2. Then export the wave files to a DAW environment . I had the zoom live it was trash 🗑. The sample rate is important however I have 14 days to decide if im keeping this or trade it for the SSL UAD SOLO, which would place me back in a DAW environment.
I went with the Podtrak, because I got a great deal for an open box for under $300. Zoom has dropped the price substantially, and it's now under $400 almost everywhere. I tried the Tascam Mixcast 4, and this actually won out because of the ability to mix onboard. I found the sound quality to be pretty close on both. This Rode was never on the table due to cost, especially since I wanted to get my feet wet first. I got this and the Podtrak P4 (with bluetooth dongle) for the price of the Rodecaster alone. So, I guess all in with Zoom! Ha! Having fun with both versions. Unfortunately, it does seem Zoom won't be offering any updates for higher bit recording.
Is there a (minus-1)-mix on every headphone output possible at the rode? Or is it just on the Bluetooth- or mobile track possible?
I mean, this minus-1-mix thing is outstanding feature because alot of people are struggling with typical issues arisen from feedback or routing-back-the-wrong-path...
Is there such thing on the Zoom?
The P8 is on sale for $250 right now. How would that price difference change your choice now?
Wouldn’t it be better to go with a multitrack recording for better preamps and processing
i need 6 XLR but i want i rodcast !! Why they don't create rodcast 6 channel ?
after listening, the clear winner is Rode pro?
Good info here. Thanks. The price of the p8 is now 250.00 a real bargain.
Worth noting is also the advanced edit mode for the effects on the RCP, allowing for further fine tuning the onboard effects as you learn more. The sound pad on the P8 also has a small annoying constraint on file type and bitrate of sound files added, which sometimes requires extra work to insert new effects for the show. That being said, owning both I would wish the RCP had the preamp of the P8.
A side note: did I miss you coming back to the EIN in the video?
Keep up the good work 🤘🏼!
Oh damn...did that end up on the cutting room floor?
Sigh
@@DarkCornerStudios Haha no worries! But a discussion of EIN vs the db level of interfaces would be a cool video in the future 👍🏼
Nice review. I'm looking at updating my audio equipment. I'm using the Zoom PodTrak4 and I love it along with the Shure SM58. But that Rodecaster Pro certainly has my interest.
I would like to suggest that you edit the description for your original RODEcaster Pro video to add a comment that updates have addressed issue(s), plus add a link to this video so people can see your updated opinion and testing of the unit if they land on your old video.
Pretty sure I did...though...does it matter THAT much?
It's very outdated in MANY ways
Great video I just wanted to ask is there an option to set a delay on the audio output for when syncing with cameras. I’ve been through the manual and can’t see anything I know the rodecaster does Ideally need the 6 mic inputs.
None that I know of...though calling tech support will help!
I bought the L-8 first, but it didn't have the ability to send phantom power to an individual mic (I run a mix of mics in my studio, some of which require phantom). The ONLY reason I didn't go with the RCP is the limited number of inputs. I have a podcast client that comes in and needs five mics- automatically killed the idea of the RCP. The other thing I discovered was that the P8 doesn't output discreet audio, so you're unable to adjust individual mics in post....or so I thought. If you record directly to the SD card, it DOES provide each source individually....I use it with OBS and haven't had problems with a sync drift as of yet...
This is great! I’ve been looking at these two and this is very helpful. Thanks!!
Cheers!!
How would you choose between P8 and Podtrak P4?
For the Podtrak I like the sound pads and portability and i do a solo podcast, so I think that one makes the most sense, especially for price point. But, i may be looking at a decent mixer I could connect to p4 at a later time. Thanks for providing your feedback.
Gonna answer this in a video this week
@@DarkCornerStudios Which video did you answer this in?
The Rodecaster with the new firmware updates from a few months back just killed the P8 for me.
DAW integration with working midi faders (obv. non motorized,) proper advanced effect controls. So no more only a on and off switch for certain processing but full control over compressors and such.
For the best sound in the unit, the Rodecaster wins easily hands down no competition.
What about the rodecaster pro vs the mixcast 4?
Are you going to review TASCAM Mixcast 4?
It is on my list...though the list is long...and my bank account isnt...
It will happen in time.
Your audio sounds so great! Thinking about getting an SMB7B, Rodecaster, and Cloudlifter. Think i can achieve a good sound with that setup?
DO NOT get a cloudlifter WIT an sm7db.
It has one built in.
Also the Rodecaster has more than enough gain to drive an original sm7b...so save some money
Do you know if i can use Track 6 to get sound from my PC via the Podtrak from my PA? I want to have the PA Monitors connected to the Podtrak. Thansk for response!
Well....there are a tonne of variables here...what kind of out is on the pa?
@@DarkCornerStudios I can use them on the P8 easily, just need the correct connectiom from my PC.
Greetings. Thank you for this video. Beginner question. Why is there a potential synching issue with video using the 44k sample rate vs 48k?
Well...less samples over the same amount of time means that eventually the smaller sample will lag behind.
Most video editing software will upsample...but not always the best option
@@DarkCornerStudios Thank you again! This is something that's been bothering me for a while.
Can the Mixcast 4 tascam be included in this comparison or is it another category?
Waiting to get my hands on it...and then...YES!
I wanted to ask if you can do a stream showing “what would be the best way to connect a Focusrite scarlet 2i2 3rd gen to a Rodecaster pro” The use case would be for adding additional XLR microphones. Some options would be via loopback ( virtual audio interface) ,various outputs from 2i2 to TRRS input on the Rodecaster pro, or using the 2i2’s output jacks. Lastly, headphones output from the 2i2 to Rodecaster pro. The Rodecaster would be the main unit. This would all connect to a MacBook pro via usb from the rodecaster pro.
Wouldnt really work great, as you would be using line outs...at line level...into an non-line level input.
Cant guarantee how that would sound.
It should be ok...but all the mics plugged into the Scarlett would be one signal...instead of multiple...
It would be an odd setup
How long you can record on ssd card?
thanks!
That all depends on the size of your SD card
@@DarkCornerStudios 👍🏻
Considering you we're using a SM7B that has excellent proximity effect the audio from both units was terrible.
I always liked Zoom gear, and never thought about Rode. But in these offerings, Rode is sticking it's neck out for the consumer, and Zoom is laughing at the consumer. Try plugging 6 XLR cables and 6 headphones on TOP of the Zoom and see what you think while trying to mix a live podcast. What a slap in the face to all of us by Zoom. Screw them for this offering. Rode, you have a new huge fan, thank you!! (I bought the Rode, had to!). 🤘🎸
Good point on the aesthetics with six mics and headphone cables plugged in. I came to this review trying to decide which one to go with.
Good point on the aesthetics with six mics and headphone cables plugged in. I came to this review trying to decide which one to go with.
Greetings Dark Corner Studios,
I’ve just acquired the Zoom PodTrak P8. All-in-All it’s a good unit-save one issue I have a question about.
While the preamp noise floor can be low (depending upon which dynamic / condenser mic is used), it can add quite a bit of noise when the compressor / de-esser is on. So…
Q. Although there is 70dB of gain, have you tried using a ‘mic activator’ with a dynamic mic so the mic preamp gain can be lowered and, thus, when turning on the compressor / de-esser the noise won’t be so prominent?
yYM
A mic pre can be a decent add...
It would work just fine
Did some work for a local lodge, without pay. They gave me an equipment grant of $500. I found Sweet Water had an open box P8 that sold for $501 which included tax and shipping. Should be here tomorrow. I am axious to get it setup and start playing so I can be ready for my Friday evening show. Being an equipment junkie is expensive :)
Don't I know it
Great comparison video! 🙂
Excellent review... Congrats...!!
Question: Can musical instruments be connected to the Rodecaster and mixed with the voices being recorded...??
Only through xlr.
There are no high impedance or hi-z instrument inputs.
You need a DI box in order to do that. It works fine. I use a DI box to connect my guitar to the rodecaster pro. Because rodecaster pro doesn’t have 1/4 instrument input.
@@giraffey8974 Great...!!
That is exactly what I thought... my concern was wether it would work as well as it does with voice.
Thank you very much guys.
Stay well.
Can't wait to see your comparison of the Rodecaster pro to the new Tascam Mixcast4
Neither can I...
Currently reaching out to Tascam to see if I can get my hands on with the unit
Just got word back...there is limited supply...but I am on the list with Tascam...so when it comes in...I will shoot that video to the top of my list
RODEcaster Pro 100% - I love mine.
Question is, if the Rodecaster is so great; why are so many people selling them?
Usually because they go full on and invest in a podcast that they aren't willing to follow through with.
In the grand scheme of things...the RCP is an ok interface...especially since they updated their drivers.
But from a studio perspective...you can find much better interfaces.
@@DarkCornerStudios Spot on. I think the Motu M2 is a very fine interface and while Audient's Evo 4 is a hunk of plastic and quirky to use the audio quality is smooth. Supposedly you can do a Rube Goldberg mix-minus setup with them but for most people just buying the P4 will give you that without the hassles.
@@DarkCornerStudios What would be a good example of a studio grade podcast audio interface. I have a XR16, but I was thinking of getting one of these 'dedicated' podcast consoles you compared in this review.
I like the P8 works well……. Went with it over the Rode to avoid getting a Cloud lifter
This is a bit of a manic remark but the thumbnail shows the Rode on the left and the PodTrak on the right but the title shows the reverse. I know, it sounds ridiculous but it confuses my mind 😂
I noticed it after.
I am changing it as we speak
YeaaaaaaAaaaaaaa!
Love it!!!
Cant u donate to me one of these gadgets sir?
No
Whenever l want to get it the rand falls and lm back to square one. 😞
Not your best bet asking for free handouts.
You realize the amount of work that goes into getting to a point that you can get them for a video?
Also...there are a tonne of recording options that aren't this expensive
@@DarkCornerStudios my apologies l realise my joke must have come across as too dry. In Africa these gadgets come at very high prices never mind the exchange rate. Most of us, therefore, rely on reviews from abroad to make decisions to import as not so many here have ever had the chance to test such products. Anyway great video and all the best. I do hv quite some equipment but like many am at tht crossroads of decisions on the best way to go, thanks for your trouble. I have watched your full video and subscribed so l guess tht puts a smile on your hard work😅 oh ya and another thing, l have liked the video