I've just uncovered my Zoom R16 that I used to record my drums and band with over a decade ago. Came here to see if anyone was still using these in 2023 because it seems like it's still a brilliant way to record live with all those inputs. Lovely bit of kit.
I got a Zoom R16 in 2019 and it's a great piece of kit. The manual is overwhelming, but I managed to boil down the functions into a four page quick reference sheet! I've never tried it as an interface, but I frequently use the USB to copy project folders to/from my computer. Once a project is on the computer, I can use Audacity to perform simple edits on the tracks, such as increasing the recording levels. I like the physicality of moving real sliders to make a mix - I can pretend I'm a real recording engineer (and not just some sad wannabee). I've also written a Java program which can analyse a song's project folder and produce a report of each track's settings, effects settings, etc. That's handy if I need to revisit a project. I'm also a Mac user.
just got one to make demos on because i find myself distracted by my computers other abilities (such as watching youtube, D'oh!) and seemed like this was the best bang for buck mini studios i can get
My dad just handed down an r16 that used to be the centerpiece of his studio since’09. Ive already got 2 focusrite 18i20s linked up but MAN this thing is a great portable interface and/or daw controller! Also found that its a really fun outboard amp sim lol
I’m still using one for various purposes. I agree 100% with the incredible ease of recording onto it, but mix elsewhere as I find the ‘clicky’ button menus cumbersome compared to a DAW with a controller. To note is that it IS actually a 16 channel recorder (8 at a time), not an 8 channel. So when chaining with another R16 in slave and master mode, you have 32 channels.
Cheers Richard, all good info here. It's such a great feature how you can chain these and good to hear you're finding the R16 handy too in 2021! I've found it ends up doing so may different jobs, very handy bit of gear to have around.
Hello, could someone help me? I have a Zoom R16, and I thank you for everything you have taught me, but I have a question when it comes to assigning the files, because when I edit them on the computer, when I transfer them back to the R16, the names of the files files appear with an asterisk (*) and I cannot assign them, do you know why this is or what I can do? Many thanks for everything.
It's because of same names. If you wanna keep the original take, change the name of the edited file and assign it to wanted track. If not, just replace the original with the new one, that's what I do. It's in the manual btw.
First of all, excuse my english, as i'm from germany. For a long time I have been looking for a simple but reasonably qualitative recording solution for simple acoustic guitar pieces with which videos should be underlaid. I'm not so fit in all of the digital recording options like Cubase etc. Here in your video I think I have found a really good solution to implement this, because the Zoom R16, as it seems, combines all the necessary features in a simple and clear way. I also have enough space in my house for a small studio. You made a very nice video here, which supports a purchase decision. Very cool - thanks🙃🙏🏻
You're very welcome bud, honestly, I had to look that all up and I'm still not entirely sure! If you were to connect a mic to the R16 and then into your iPhone for a broadcast then sure. Your r16 is then simply acting as a mixer or preamp. Hope that helps.
That’s what I needed to hear I was looking to start recording my drums and was looking for something and this one was looking intriguing I’ll probably pick it up sometime this week
Hey! Great review, thanks. Convinced me to buy a used one. Got it all up and running as well as working flawlessly as an audio interface using Cubase 11 on Windows 10. Drivers seem to have been updated just last year. :)
Using a r16 as the hub of my home recording studio and everything works great. No problems with drivers at all. Use it portable to record bands and in the studio through the pc running Studio One, giving me 8 channels at once, where the faders and other controls work as a control surface. Only thing it doesn’t do is work with an iPad but considering there’s nothing like this around that does work with an iPad, it’s not really it’s fault.
If I was to record my band at rehearsal how could I get the individual tracks into logic to mix separately back at home? Does it write Individual tracks - eg bass, guitar, vox - to the SD card?
This looks great. I have the 2009 version and am thinking of using it for a solo acoustic gig this weekend. Does this also work for mixing a live gig or will I run into compatibility issues? I'll be using a Bose-type of stand-alone speaker. PS - I'm a massive Chas & Dave fan!
Hey bud, yeah should work but yes you also may run into some issues, couldn't say for sure so def worth trying out before hand. Always good to meet a Chas & Dave fan!
I've had one for about 6 years now. It sounds great through my monitors but every time bounce and master my tracks to a sine stereo .WAV track, the resulting EQ sounds weak on many playback options. I'm able to get the best playback through a car stereo to tell the truth. Most often the final master track sounds weak on the bass and drums and too heavy on trebles. I don't know what I could be doing wrong.
Hey my friend. This is a really common issue with working in a home studio. Your mix will sound great where you're mixing but falls apart on other systems. Almost always down to your listening environment and too much bass reflections causing you to attenuate too much bass in the master. Some acoustic treatment/bass traps can do wonders. Hope that helps
@@realhomestudioofficial I think you're right. Most of my recording is direct line input though. But I think you're right that I try to attenuate it too much in the final mix. Using headphones helps a little but not that much.
I use the R16 as an interface controller for Mixcraft 9 pro studio (which has up to date drivers). Love this ZOOM R16 unit for instant recording for my acoustic guitar via my plugged in rode NTG4+. Also great as a field recorder. I bought this for £100 from a friend who was given it for nothing. Awesome unit for my Desk Top.
I had mine for close to 10 years. It's a very useful device. The preamps aren't very good, but there are easy work around for that. And it still records fairly clean.
ello, could someone help me? I have a Zoom R16, and I thank you for everything you have taught me, but I have a question when it comes to assigning the files, because when I edit them on the computer, when I transfer them back to the R16, the names of the files files appear with an asterisk (*) and I cannot assign them, do you know why this is or what I can do?
Loved the video and i just got R16 to my jam space to help with room recordings. One issue i encountered is that its not working very well with Mac OS Catalina (and im pretty sure Big Sur). Seeing that you're running iMac, have you encountered any issues using it as an Audio Interface?
Hi bud, thanks for that. Yeah , I mentioned this briefly towards the end of the video. I did try to run the R16 as an interface/controller a while back but things just weren't compatable and it quickly turned into a headache! That said I did just look at the Zoom website and see they updated the drivers in June 2020 so maybe it's out there working for some people?
@@realhomestudioofficial it's a bit difficult to find clear info. Some people say, the R24 actually takes a USB Powerbank. That would be another huge difference between the models.
When I switch it on and start playing a saved project on the SD card, no sound comes out until you move the faders or maybe it's a bug in an older version of the firmware. Also, the preamps are not very good and they are very noisy. Because of this, I have to use expensive external preamps and turn the gain on the R16 all the way down. The manual is not very good and there are some features which you have to learn how to do yourself. It's not a complete setup. You have to spend a lot more money to get decent quality sound but the R16 is OK for the money.
Can I connect it to a Android tablet? Is there a app for multitrack recording? I used to have Reaper DAW on a laptop, but I am thinking about buying a tablet (touch screen, cheaper)...
Hi bud. As far as I know there's no Zoom app for recording and as far as connection goes I think the R16 is becoming outdated. As I mention in the video it's best use is definitely as a recorder and then use the SD card or usb connect to import the data into your tablet. Hope that helps
Hi, yes, this is class compliant and works with an MPC (which means it's Linux class compliant) so android should be no problem. As far as multi-tracking in Android, I've been working (limited so far) with the Audio Evolution app. They have a method (with small addtl charge) of bypassing androids notoriously laggy path and taking direct control of the USB audio or Midi interface to keep it from going into those deeper laggy layers. Try it out.
Hey great video man! I've been looking at one of these for recording demos and getting song ideas down as a guitar player. I'm still pretty novice in Ableton so I feel like this would be a good tool for capturing rough cuts quickly. The drum loops are also great for someone like me to be able to record full demo tracks. Being that I'm really only looking to use this to record demos to then show to my band later, do you think I should go for the R16 or the cheaper R8? Thanks!
Hey my friend. From what you've written here it sounds like the R8 would be the best match for you with it's fx, drum sounds and loops. The R16 is much more of a straight recorder more suited to recording bands. Hope that helps bud.
Have Zoom r16, use it as audio interface. Just bought a studio monitor (Adam Studio, T5). Monitor is on, plugged into output L in r16, and in Logic X have output set to r16 (vs. headphones). But can't get any sound out of the monitors. (I think I have to set an input/output channel on the r16, but cannot figure out how to do that.) Advice would be much appreciated.
Hi David. I've never used the R16 for an audio interface. There are a couple of folks on here though who have (have a look through the comments) they may be able to help you further. Sure you'll get that sorted.
I've used one for about 7 years now. Unfortunately I've ways had hit-or-miss results with EQ on my recordings. I use small flat-sound monitors and when I mix down and/or master, the resulting mix rarely sounds nearly the same on o other devices. My best results have been on my car stereo. We have a bassy Bluetooth speaker at work, but it usually seems that the bass in the recording sounds like it's far in the background. Years ago I realized that many people have that problem when they are using the wrong speakers for mixdown. That was why I bought the flat sound monitors. It seems that in my basement studio the base comes out just fine, but somehow it gets lost when I move it to other devices. I've tried it with both WAV and MP3 versions. I've also used some sound mastering apps with EQ adjustment , but this only helps a little in most cases. Most of the time it's the bass that's lost but occasionally it's the other way around. I wish I knew where in the process the discrepancy is occurring.
Hi John.. i have a 2009 Macbook pro running Live 9 Standard and a bunch of korg volcas that i want to integrate with this DAW.. i basically want audio from different volcas brought into different channels on ableton where i can apply Eq and effects seperately for the each of them. All this in a live set scenario. can the ZOOM R 16 do this in audio interface mode..? or does it send one master audio out into the DAW..? if im right it records eights tracks separately in standalone mode.. does it send all eight separately into the DAW too..?
Hi bud. First off, that Macbook is a real trooper! I believe the R16 when in audio interface mode only acts as a 2 channel interface so won't do what you're asking. Focusrite 18i20 would be worth looking at. Hope that helps.
I don't know if you get to see this, but I wanted to ask: is it worth getting a second hand R16 than an R8? (also, how come they discontinued such a great product?)
Hey my friend. good question. Yes the R8 and R16 are really great value second hand. The R8 is much better for a soloist and sketchy demos, the R16 is much more suited to recording bands and larger projects. They recently launched the successor to these models, the R20, worth taking a look. Hope that helps .
I bought one from Guitar Center, Open Box. Looked brand new, even the plastic on the display was still intact! Imagine buying a 16 track digital recorder back in the day... Thousands of Dollars! This is a fantastic little machine! built in effects!!! Love it do death!
Thanks for sharing this, total bargain! I totally know wha you mean, it's just incredible! I remember bands I was in paying a fortune to record at 24 track studios in the 90s and me endlessly bouncing phasey tracks on a tascam 4 track cassette, fun times but yeah, digital is superb!!!!
You'd have to ask the Zoom designers that one!, but yeah for me it's not something I'd use but can totally understand how it could be handy for sketching demos
@@CarlosGarcia-eo5fo Hi Carlos and thank you for the video suggestion. I've put it on my list to make. In the meantime, If there's any questions I can help you with please feel free to ask.
@@realhomestudioofficial Thank you for your attention and your humility to assist me ... I am trying to decide between r16 or r24 as an interface ... I am eager to see your video ... Success and may God bless you and always ...
Cheers bud, there's been a few people in the comments box who have had success with updated drivers so it may be that the latest updates are working better than when I made this, which ever one you choose, enjoy!
Very useful vid, but can you please answer a question I've been unable to get an answer to up til now? It's supposedly a 16-track but there's only 8 faders marked 1/9, 2/10 etc. So how do you mix down 16 tracks? I can't find info on this in the manual or anywhere. I'd much appreciate an answer. Thanks.
Hi bud, that's a good question. I've never mixed on the R16 and always export to mix in my daw but I imagine that one bank of your recordings remains static whilst you use the bank buttons to alternate between banks 1-8 and 9-16 for recording/mixing.
@@realhomestudioofficial Thank you. I think that answers my question. I have little interest in mixing on a computer; I'm a bit old-fashioned/low-tech and prefer the idea of using physical faders so I'll probably get a Tascam DP24 instead.
@@wiillthebarbertv9415 That is what I suspected might be the most likely answer. That would make it quite limiting because what seems like a good balance between two instruments in isolation doesn't necessarily translate to a good balance once all the other stuff comes into the picture. I got the Tascam in the end and it's working out well but your reply confirms that I made the right choice. Thanks.
Hi my friend, if you're using it as an interface then it's only 2 track. If you're using it as a standalone and then transferring your files to a computer, the 8 tracks will be recorded individually.
@@realhomestudioofficialthanks for your great and energetic video! I’m a Lamer with tech. Although I’ve had my R16 for some years, and know the basics of how to record on it, that’s my limit. I struggle with instruction manuals too….. if you would be so very kind, I have a question please….. when I’ve recorded multiple instruments and voice in the past, I’ve passed the SD card to a band member who would then distribute our home made band music to the members, ‘mixed down’. But since I’ve left the band, and work partially alone and partially with new collaborators, I don’t know how to Mix Down. I think that’s the term? Basically I’ve finally managed to get the SD card to upload the Individual channel tracks onto my laptop…..but…..how do I merge/mix them? Can it be done on the R16? Then transfer the completed mixed song to laptop? Or do I Have To do the finalising of mixing a song, on the laptop only (and the r16 won’t do it, it only gives individual channels as separate files)? Thanks again for any assistance, as I’ve stopped making music for the moment as I feel anything I do is ‘trapped’ in these individual files, I can’t make a complete song as an MP3 or WAV. If I ever know how to do that, I can send the song to other members in WeTransfer so they can work on the songs, they live on the other side of the country. And they’re all similar to me, not very savvy with this kinda stuff. Thanks again and keep well. ❤
Hi please you Say me if Is possible to use zoom R-16 with reaper and if this R-16 Is compatibile to use on Linux Debian .. tanks for your help to me and best regards from naples Italy
Hi bud. I can't see why you would have any issues with Reaper compared to other daws. There's a positive comment on here from Studio Spiral Universe using Linux and it seems like people are having no problems using the R16 with the 2020 drivers from the Zoom website. Wishing you a great day!
Lots of love for this machine and thanks for confirming that affection again 12 years after its introduction! :-) Maybe a very silly question. Been having fun with this little machine for years, but for real home recording starting to prefer recording directly into the DAW; is that possible with this thing, or not? I have not found a way to do it. I can make the condensator mic to work and hear it back via the interface setting, but I cannot make it record directly on my CPU. Hope this question makes sense and curious to hear! Muchas gracias in advance
Hi bud. Yes, the R16 can also be used as an interface and there's a few guys on this thread who have commented and had success setting it up recently with the updated 2020 drivers. I don't whether it allows you to use the built in mics though.
You can always transfer recorded tracks between the R-16 and a computer using the USB cable. The R-16 appears on the computer's desktop as another filing system. You go into the project folder (PROJnnn), and then drag and drop the .WAV files onto your computer. This will work with the internal mikes, but of course you need to have done the recording first, and then transferred the files to the computer. You can also copy wave files off the computer into the PROJnnn folder and then associate them with a track number following the instructions in the manual. As long as the files are uncompressed, 44100Hz and 16 or 24 bit mono, it works pretty well.
Hey Man - nice quick demo . . sorry but a bit TOO quick (are you afraid of viewers "pressing on") would have been nice with a bit of audio rec in an out
They stopped updating this unit 2020. So it’s not gonna work with Big Sur etc. it’s was a great solution a couple years ago. I bought my R16 9 years ago. It’s really really really old.
Just checked the Zoom website. The latest Mac drivers are dated April this year (2021), so maybe they haven't abandoned new releases. To the best of my knowledge, the R-16 is still in production despite being long in the tooth. The new L series mixer/recorders don't appear to be aimed at the same market as the R-16/R-24.
That is my next recorder. I want to transfer 4 track cassette recordings, so I'll direct out and take advantage of recording 4 tracks simultaneously. Then, I'll have files. I;ve had trouble with the hard stop buttons that click on tascams dp series. These buttons look soft, and hopefully work better.
you said you encountered problems using it as an audio interface why is that? Im getting one tomorrow and I want to make sure I know what im getting I hope I get a response:)
Hey bud, yeah, for an audio interface I'd certainly say there's a lot of better choices out there which will causes you much less of a headache and have better drivers too. My experience was that compatibility was not happening. It's an old unit now and as far as interfaces go, keeping relatively up to date is a good thing. Looks like the drivers were last updated in 2020 so if you go with it and have no problems please do let me know on here so others can see. For a standalone portable recorder though, it's a beast!
@@realhomestudioofficial okay so i got it and its work just perfect with all my DAWS you just need to go to its website and download its files and done
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I've just uncovered my Zoom R16 that I used to record my drums and band with over a decade ago. Came here to see if anyone was still using these in 2023 because it seems like it's still a brilliant way to record live with all those inputs. Lovely bit of kit.
Well and I have been using ZOOM R24 eventually since 2023 still and am highly satisfied. That is also a mighty part.
As a drummer I still use this!! Love it bc it's its own interface!
💯 Corey 👍 nothing better out there at this price for drummers and bands my friend 🤘
I got a Zoom R16 in 2019 and it's a great piece of kit. The manual is overwhelming, but I managed to boil down the functions into a four page quick reference sheet! I've never tried it as an interface, but I frequently use the USB to copy project folders to/from my computer. Once a project is on the computer, I can use Audacity to perform simple edits on the tracks, such as increasing the recording levels. I like the physicality of moving real sliders to make a mix - I can pretend I'm a real recording engineer (and not just some sad wannabee). I've also written a Java program which can analyse a song's project folder and produce a report of each track's settings, effects settings, etc. That's handy if I need to revisit a project. I'm also a Mac user.
Hi, Mandolinic - that Java program would be a great option when compared to filling out a track sheet. I am still doing it the old way....
@@om9404 I'm happy to let you have a copy. You'd need to install some other software on your computer to allow it to run.
@@mandolinic Thank you for the kind offer! Please let me know what would be needed (whenever you have some time). Thanks!
@@om9404 Have you got an email address I could use to establish communication?
@@mandolinic - absolutely! Try joyuda@hotmail.com. Thanks!
its 2022 and still 100% usable. Live, recording and for post..
Is it possible to send a track out to the headphones separate from the main outs?
just got one to make demos on because i find myself distracted by my computers other abilities (such as watching youtube, D'oh!) and seemed like this was the best bang for buck mini studios i can get
Nice move Ted, yeah totally agree, working on computers can be really distracting. Nice one investing in the R16 and happy recording!
My dad just handed down an r16 that used to be the centerpiece of his studio since’09. Ive already got 2 focusrite 18i20s linked up but MAN this thing is a great portable interface and/or daw controller! Also found that its a really fun outboard amp sim lol
Do you know if it’s working with iPads?
I’m still using one for various purposes. I agree 100% with the incredible ease of recording onto it, but mix elsewhere as I find the ‘clicky’ button menus cumbersome compared to a DAW with a controller. To note is that it IS actually a 16 channel recorder (8 at a time), not an 8 channel. So when chaining with another R16 in slave and master mode, you have 32 channels.
Cheers Richard, all good info here. It's such a great feature how you can chain these and good to hear you're finding the R16 handy too in 2021! I've found it ends up doing so may different jobs, very handy bit of gear to have around.
I see no EQ knobs for the channels?
I've got a 32gb sd card and it only let's me record up to 1.10 or so, how can fix this this?
Hello, could someone help me? I have a Zoom R16, and I thank you for everything you have taught me, but I have a question when it comes to assigning the files, because when I edit them on the computer, when I transfer them back to the R16, the names of the files files appear with an asterisk (*) and I cannot assign them, do you know why this is or what I can do? Many thanks for everything.
It's because of same names. If you wanna keep the original take, change the name of the edited file and assign it to wanted track. If not, just replace the original with the new one, that's what I do. It's in the manual btw.
First of all, excuse my english, as i'm from germany. For a long time I have been looking for a simple but reasonably qualitative recording solution for simple acoustic guitar pieces with which videos should be underlaid. I'm not so fit in all of the digital recording options like Cubase etc. Here in your video I think I have found a really good solution to implement this, because the Zoom R16, as it seems, combines all the necessary features in a simple and clear way. I also have enough space in my house for a small studio. You made a very nice video here, which supports a purchase decision. Very cool - thanks🙃🙏🏻
That's great! I'm really pleased you found the video helpful and wish you a great day!
Thanks for keeping it fast
I ask thats product zoom r16 he is capable protools daw
Its possible to plug on iphone for live broadcasting? With OTG usb adapter.....Thanks for the video, friend.
You're very welcome bud, honestly, I had to look that all up and I'm still not entirely sure! If you were to connect a mic to the R16 and then into your iPhone for a broadcast then sure. Your r16 is then simply acting as a mixer or preamp. Hope that helps.
you would use a lightning to USB adapter plugged into a powered USB hub. I think it would work if the zoom is class compliant USB.
Would you recommend this for recording a beat from a drum machine/sequencer using 8 assignable mixouts?
Hi bud, yeah this would be perfect for that.
What drummachine has that?
@@svenjansen2134 MPC drum machines
I use this for my drums, never been happier
Nice one Josh, superb little box for drums!
That’s what I needed to hear I was looking to start recording my drums and was looking for something and this one was looking intriguing I’ll probably pick it up sometime this week
Love my r16 and r8. I'm old and could not see this coming way back in the 90s, struggling with a 4track Fostex tapedeck. Future is now lol
Agreed! I borrowed a mates fostex 4 track back in the 90s and saved to get my own tascam. Great machines, wouldn't go back to them days though! 🤙
Hey! Great review, thanks. Convinced me to buy a used one. Got it all up and running as well as working flawlessly as an audio interface using Cubase 11 on Windows 10. Drivers seem to have been updated just last year. :)
That's awesome bud, what a machine! Yeah, it sounds like that update has made it a very useable interface again also! Serious bang for your buck!
I have the R24 and it works without problems under Linux with Bitwig Studio as Interface and Mixer controller.
I've been using my r24 with Ubuntu Studio. I can't get the mixer controller to work, but the interface works wonderfully!
Using a r16 as the hub of my home recording studio and everything works great. No problems with drivers at all. Use it portable to record bands and in the studio through the pc running Studio One, giving me 8 channels at once, where the faders and other controls work as a control surface. Only thing it doesn’t do is work with an iPad but considering there’s nothing like this around that does work with an iPad, it’s not really it’s fault.
If I was to record my band at rehearsal how could I get the individual tracks into logic to mix separately back at home? Does it write Individual tracks - eg bass, guitar, vox - to the SD card?
This looks great. I have the 2009 version and am thinking of using it for a solo acoustic gig this weekend. Does this also work for mixing a live gig or will I run into compatibility issues? I'll be using a Bose-type of stand-alone speaker. PS - I'm a massive Chas & Dave fan!
Hey bud, yeah should work but yes you also may run into some issues, couldn't say for sure so def worth trying out before hand. Always good to meet a Chas & Dave fan!
Cool vid. Any thoughts vs r24?
Cheers bud, haven't used the r24, reviews seem good. 👍
I've had one for about 6 years now. It sounds great through my monitors but every time bounce and master my tracks to a sine stereo .WAV track, the resulting EQ sounds weak on many playback options. I'm able to get the best playback through a car stereo to tell the truth. Most often the final master track sounds weak on the bass and drums and too heavy on trebles. I don't know what I could be doing wrong.
Hey my friend. This is a really common issue with working in a home studio. Your mix will sound great where you're mixing but falls apart on other systems. Almost always down to your listening environment and too much bass reflections causing you to attenuate too much bass in the master. Some acoustic treatment/bass traps can do wonders. Hope that helps
@@realhomestudioofficial I think you're right. Most of my recording is direct line input though. But I think you're right that I try to attenuate it too much in the final mix. Using headphones helps a little but not that much.
Now 2024 and it’s still solid.
Yeah what a beast!
This is my favorite multitrack recorder. The only thing it’s missing is an effects loop.
Yeah they smashed it with this one 💥
I use the R16 as an interface controller for Mixcraft 9 pro studio (which has up to date drivers).
Love this ZOOM R16 unit for instant recording for my acoustic guitar via my plugged in rode NTG4+.
Also great as a field recorder. I bought this for £100 from a friend who was given it for nothing.
Awesome unit for my Desk Top.
Thanks for sharing bud, great little box!
I had mine for close to 10 years. It's a very useful device.
The preamps aren't very good, but there are easy work around for that. And it still records fairly clean.
ello, could someone help me? I have a Zoom R16, and I thank you for everything you have taught me, but I have a question when it comes to assigning the files, because when I edit them on the computer, when I transfer them back to the R16, the names of the files files appear with an asterisk (*) and I cannot assign them, do you know why this is or what I can do?
@juananillo2093 Change the name OR replace original file with edited file. It works fine.
@juananillo2093 It's in the manual.
It is because they have the same name. Once again: READ THE MANUAL.
Hello! It also works as a 8 channel interface ?
As an interface 2 channels only
Loved the video and i just got R16 to my jam space to help with room recordings. One issue i encountered is that its not working very well with Mac OS Catalina (and im pretty sure Big Sur). Seeing that you're running iMac, have you encountered any issues using it as an Audio Interface?
Hi bud, thanks for that. Yeah , I mentioned this briefly towards the end of the video. I did try to run the R16 as an interface/controller a while back but things just weren't compatable and it quickly turned into a headache! That said I did just look at the Zoom website and see they updated the drivers in June 2020 so maybe it's out there working for some people?
Nice vid! Can the R16 be powered by USB with a powerbank?
Cheers bud, I'm pretty sure your power options are either mains or aa battery only
@@realhomestudioofficial it's a bit difficult to find clear info. Some people say, the R24 actually takes a USB Powerbank. That would be another huge difference between the models.
When I switch it on and start playing a saved project on the SD card, no sound comes out until you move the faders or maybe it's a bug in an older version of the firmware. Also, the preamps are not very good and they are very noisy. Because of this, I have to use expensive external preamps and turn the gain on the R16 all the way down. The manual is not very good and there are some features which you have to learn how to do yourself. It's not a complete setup. You have to spend a lot more money to get decent quality sound but the R16 is OK for the money.
Can I connect it to a Android tablet? Is there a app for multitrack recording? I used to have Reaper DAW on a laptop, but I am thinking about buying a tablet (touch screen, cheaper)...
Hi bud. As far as I know there's no Zoom app for recording and as far as connection goes I think the R16 is becoming outdated. As I mention in the video it's best use is definitely as a recorder and then use the SD card or usb connect to import the data into your tablet. Hope that helps
There's bandlab. It's pretty cool
@@benjaminfowler4513 good shout Benjamin!
Hi, yes, this is class compliant and works with an MPC (which means it's Linux class compliant) so android should be no problem.
As far as multi-tracking in Android, I've been working (limited so far) with the Audio Evolution app. They have a method (with small addtl charge) of bypassing androids notoriously laggy path and taking direct control of the USB audio or Midi interface to keep it from going into those deeper laggy layers. Try it out.
Hey great video man! I've been looking at one of these for recording demos and getting song ideas down as a guitar player. I'm still pretty novice in Ableton so I feel like this would be a good tool for capturing rough cuts quickly. The drum loops are also great for someone like me to be able to record full demo tracks. Being that I'm really only looking to use this to record demos to then show to my band later, do you think I should go for the R16 or the cheaper R8? Thanks!
Hey my friend. From what you've written here it sounds like the R8 would be the best match for you with it's fx, drum sounds and loops. The R16 is much more of a straight recorder more suited to recording bands. Hope that helps bud.
Have Zoom r16, use it as audio interface. Just bought a studio monitor (Adam Studio, T5). Monitor is on, plugged into output L in r16, and in Logic X have output set to r16 (vs. headphones). But can't get any sound out of the monitors. (I think I have to set an input/output channel on the r16, but cannot figure out how to do that.) Advice would be much appreciated.
Hi David. I've never used the R16 for an audio interface. There are a couple of folks on here though who have (have a look through the comments) they may be able to help you further. Sure you'll get that sorted.
I've used one for about 7 years now. Unfortunately I've ways had hit-or-miss results with EQ on my recordings. I use small flat-sound monitors and when I mix down and/or master, the resulting mix rarely sounds nearly the same on o other devices. My best results have been on my car stereo. We have a bassy Bluetooth speaker at work, but it usually seems that the bass in the recording sounds like it's far in the background. Years ago I realized that many people have that problem when they are using the wrong speakers for mixdown. That was why I bought the flat sound monitors. It seems that in my basement studio the base comes out just fine, but somehow it gets lost when I move it to other devices. I've tried it with both WAV and MP3 versions. I've also used some sound mastering apps with EQ adjustment , but this only helps a little in most cases. Most of the time it's the bass that's lost but occasionally it's the other way around. I wish I knew where in the process the discrepancy is occurring.
Good question. It's not a 'professional' machine. I'm not a good mixer myself.
Hi John.. i have a 2009 Macbook pro running Live 9 Standard and a bunch of korg volcas that i want to integrate with this DAW.. i basically want audio from different volcas brought into different channels on ableton where i can apply Eq and effects seperately for the each of them. All this in a live set scenario. can the ZOOM R 16 do this in audio interface mode..? or does it send one master audio out into the DAW..? if im right it records eights tracks separately in standalone mode.. does it send all eight separately into the DAW too..?
Hi bud. First off, that Macbook is a real trooper! I believe the R16 when in audio interface mode only acts as a 2 channel interface so won't do what you're asking. Focusrite 18i20 would be worth looking at. Hope that helps.
I don't know if you get to see this, but I wanted to ask: is it worth getting a second hand R16 than an R8? (also, how come they discontinued such a great product?)
Hey my friend. good question. Yes the R8 and R16 are really great value second hand. The R8 is much better for a soloist and sketchy demos, the R16 is much more suited to recording bands and larger projects. They recently launched the successor to these models, the R20, worth taking a look. Hope that helps .
I bought one from Guitar Center, Open Box. Looked brand new, even the plastic on the display was still intact! Imagine buying a 16 track digital recorder back in the day... Thousands of Dollars! This is a fantastic little machine! built in effects!!! Love it do death!
Thanks for sharing this, total bargain! I totally know wha you mean, it's just incredible! I remember bands I was in paying a fortune to record at 24 track studios in the 90s and me endlessly bouncing phasey tracks on a tascam 4 track cassette, fun times but yeah, digital is superb!!!!
Why does a R8 and R24 have the drum function but not the 16?
You'd have to ask the Zoom designers that one!, but yeah for me it's not something I'd use but can totally understand how it could be handy for sketching demos
you can make a video campain r16 vs r24? Please thanks
@@CarlosGarcia-eo5fo Hi Carlos and thank you for the video suggestion. I've put it on my list to make. In the meantime, If there's any questions I can help you with please feel free to ask.
@@realhomestudioofficial Thank you for your attention and your humility to assist me ... I am trying to decide between r16 or r24 as an interface ... I am eager to see your video ... Success and may God bless you and always ...
Because it's user unfriendly and not everybody wants drumpads on a plastic recorder. Use a separate drumcomputer, sounds better too.
very useful! thanks for mentioning the problem with modern drivers. I'm torn between this one and the L8
Cheers bud, there's been a few people in the comments box who have had success with updated drivers so it may be that the latest updates are working better than when I made this, which ever one you choose, enjoy!
Brilliant machine - l liked it so much, l bought another one for when the first one wears out !
Simon (UK)
I linked 2 together before, such clever boxes 💯
Dose anyone use this as a interface with iPad?
Thanks for the breakdown!
Hey bud, you're very welcome💯👍
Very useful vid, but can you please answer a question I've been unable to get an answer to up til now? It's supposedly a 16-track but there's only 8 faders marked 1/9, 2/10 etc. So how do you mix down 16 tracks? I can't find info on this in the manual or anywhere. I'd much appreciate an answer. Thanks.
Hi bud, that's a good question. I've never mixed on the R16 and always export to mix in my daw but I imagine that one bank of your recordings remains static whilst you use the bank buttons to alternate between banks 1-8 and 9-16 for recording/mixing.
@@realhomestudioofficial Thank you. I think that answers my question. I have little interest in mixing on a computer; I'm a bit old-fashioned/low-tech and prefer the idea of using physical faders so I'll probably get a Tascam DP24 instead.
@@Maltloaflegrande Yes absolutely, the Tascam DP24 is a much better choice for that, great machine too! Wishing you all the best with it bud
You have to bounce tracks down to 2 channels
@@wiillthebarbertv9415 That is what I suspected might be the most likely answer. That would make it quite limiting because what seems like a good balance between two instruments in isolation doesn't necessarily translate to a good balance once all the other stuff comes into the picture. I got the Tascam in the end and it's working out well but your reply confirms that I made the right choice. Thanks.
Does it record each track individually on a daw, or do they all simultaneously record on one track?
Hi my friend, if you're using it as an interface then it's only 2 track. If you're using it as a standalone and then transferring your files to a computer, the 8 tracks will be recorded individually.
...
@@realhomestudioofficialthanks for your great and energetic video! I’m a Lamer with tech. Although I’ve had my R16 for some years, and know the basics of how to record on it, that’s my limit. I struggle with instruction manuals too….. if you would be so very kind, I have a question please….. when I’ve recorded multiple instruments and voice in the past, I’ve passed the SD card to a band member who would then distribute our home made band music to the members, ‘mixed down’. But since I’ve left the band, and work partially alone and partially with new collaborators, I don’t know how to Mix Down. I think that’s the term? Basically I’ve finally managed to get the SD card to upload the Individual channel tracks onto my laptop…..but…..how do I merge/mix them? Can it be done on the R16? Then transfer the completed mixed song to laptop? Or do I Have To do the finalising of mixing a song, on the laptop only (and the r16 won’t do it, it only gives individual channels as separate files)? Thanks again for any assistance, as I’ve stopped making music for the moment as I feel anything I do is ‘trapped’ in these individual files, I can’t make a complete song as an MP3 or WAV.
If I ever know how to do that, I can send the song to other members in WeTransfer so they can work on the songs, they live on the other side of the country. And they’re all similar to me, not very savvy with this kinda stuff. Thanks again and keep well. ❤
Is the 24 better or this one
8 tracks more plus a user unfriendly drummachine.
Hi please you Say me if Is possible to use zoom R-16 with reaper and if this R-16 Is compatibile to use on Linux Debian .. tanks for your help to me and best regards from naples Italy
Hi bud. I can't see why you would have any issues with Reaper compared to other daws. There's a positive comment on here from Studio Spiral Universe using Linux and it seems like people are having no problems using the R16 with the 2020 drivers from the Zoom website. Wishing you a great day!
@@realhomestudioofficial tanks best regards to you from naples italy
Most of the music on my channel is recorded, interfaced or mixed with the Zoom R8. It is the absolute best investment Ive made for recording.
Hi Christopher, that's awesome! Yeah the Zoom multitracks are just great.
Lots of love for this machine and thanks for confirming that affection again 12 years after its introduction! :-)
Maybe a very silly question. Been having fun with this little machine for years, but for real home recording starting to prefer recording directly into the DAW; is that possible with this thing, or not? I have not found a way to do it. I can make the condensator mic to work and hear it back via the interface setting, but I cannot make it record directly on my CPU.
Hope this question makes sense and curious to hear! Muchas gracias in advance
Hi bud. Yes, the R16 can also be used as an interface and there's a few guys on this thread who have commented and had success setting it up recently with the updated 2020 drivers. I don't whether it allows you to use the built in mics though.
You can always transfer recorded tracks between the R-16 and a computer using the USB cable. The R-16 appears on the computer's desktop as another filing system. You go into the project folder (PROJnnn), and then drag and drop the .WAV files onto your computer. This will work with the internal mikes, but of course you need to have done the recording first, and then transferred the files to the computer. You can also copy wave files off the computer into the PROJnnn folder and then associate them with a track number following the instructions in the manual. As long as the files are uncompressed, 44100Hz and 16 or 24 bit mono, it works pretty well.
did anyone get this to work with an ipad?
Hey Man - nice quick demo . . sorry but a bit TOO quick (are you afraid of viewers "pressing on")
would have been nice with a bit of audio rec in an out
not afraid! just early days on youtube, glad it was helpful
They stopped updating this unit 2020. So it’s not gonna work with Big Sur etc.
it’s was a great solution a couple years ago. I bought my R16 9 years ago.
It’s really really really old.
Just checked the Zoom website. The latest Mac drivers are dated April this year (2021), so maybe they haven't abandoned new releases. To the best of my knowledge, the R-16 is still in production despite being long in the tooth. The new L series mixer/recorders don't appear to be aimed at the same market as the R-16/R-24.
That is my next recorder. I want to transfer 4 track cassette recordings, so I'll direct out and take advantage of recording 4 tracks simultaneously. Then, I'll have files. I;ve had trouble with the hard stop buttons that click on tascams dp series. These buttons look soft, and hopefully work better.
Hey bud. The buttons are hard also. The stop button on mine is a little unresponsive sometimes, but nothing too serious.
@@realhomestudioofficial dang. ok, thanks
@@realhomestudioofficial dang. ok, thanks/ Still has the features i need though.
you said you encountered problems using it as an audio interface why is that? Im getting one tomorrow and I want to make sure I know what im getting I hope I get a response:)
Hey bud, yeah, for an audio interface I'd certainly say there's a lot of better choices out there which will causes you much less of a headache and have better drivers too. My experience was that compatibility was not happening. It's an old unit now and as far as interfaces go, keeping relatively up to date is a good thing. Looks like the drivers were last updated in 2020 so if you go with it and have no problems please do let me know on here so others can see. For a standalone portable recorder though, it's a beast!
@@realhomestudioofficial thank you so much for the info i will definitely let you know wish me luck!
@@realhomestudioofficial okay so i got it and its work just perfect with all my DAWS you just need to go to its website and download its files and done
That's superb bud! Thanks for sharing your success. Really good to know you're rocking the R16 as an interface in 2021!
@@realhomestudioofficial its my baby now😂😂
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No driver problems, it uses mackie protocol
Cool I have the zoom R8
I used to have the r 16,
I have both. R8 is only one with footswitch punch in/out. Very very very useful.
No midi in/out connections , so no midi-clock sync for synths/ arps etc. Why ? Production costs cutting ? Pretty useless for me it is !
What? Damn. That's useful to know. I wonder if it can send or receive clock/sync/MTC through USB.
I've just managed to get one of these too on the used market, and I'm looking forward to learning how to use it. Great video!
Nice one and thank you! A lot of love for the R16, I'm sure you'll have a great time using it my friend!
3:01 the tricks up the what?
Lol! R16's sleeve
I really need one from Ghana
Why from Ghana?
ZOOM has released the ZOOM R20
Looks impressive!
With NO punch in/out lol
Nice wii buy soon
It is not compatible with Big Sur.
Thanks for sharing the info bud
ballchinian
Fuck...didnt know you need 2 units for 16 tracks 🙄
yeah, to record 16 tracks simultaneously you'll need 2 but you can record 16 tracks on one R16 if you're multitracking
@@realhomestudioofficial Yeah, just realized that when it came in the mail 😂 my bad
It doesn't have 16 inputs so you should've known better.