Zoom Q8n-4K Handy 4K video recorder with 4-track audio, XY stereo microphone capsule, and two XLR inputs

Features
Video
Audio
Additional Features

Features

Overview: The Zoom Q8n-4K Handy Video Recorder is a high-definition video and high-resolution audio recorder, designed for musicians, content creators, live streaming, and independent film makers. The Q8n-4K is ideal for capturing rehearsals, performances, and live streams. It can record video in up to 4K Ultra HD, with hi-res audio up to 24-bit/96kHz in WAV format. The Handy Video Recorder features a built-in X/Y microphone system that can be folded into a compact form when the camera is not in use.

Video

Video Recording: The Q8n-4K can record 4K high-definition and standard-definition video in MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 (MOV) format in several different settings:

Record Modes: Four Recording Modes are available:

• MOV: Records MOV files containing both video and stereo audio.
• MOV+WAV: WAV files are saved separately for each channel in addition to MOV files.
• WAV (Stereo): Stereo audio is saved as WAV files.
• WAV (Multi): Stereo audio and audio for each channel are saved separately as WAV files.

Video Scenes: The Q8n-4K features 5 Recording Scenes that let you quickly set the camera for different environmental conditions.

• Auto: Video settings will change automatically based on the recording conditions.
• Indoor: Settings are optimized for indoor recording.
• Outdoor: Settings are optimized for outdoor recording.
• Concert Light: Settings are optimized for concert lighting that is bright, but changes drastically.
• Night: Settings are ideal for night time or other dark/low-light situations.

Lens/Image Sensor: The Q8n-4K features an F 2.8 lens, with a 150˚ field of view, and a 1/2.3" 16 M-flexible CMOS sensor for producing the high-definition video images. The Q8n-4K does not take still images.

Field of View (FOV): This setting allows you to narrow or widen the field of view while recording. Five options are available ranging from Tele, for the narrowest field of view, to Wide, for the widest field of view.

Brightness: Three selections are available: High (bright), Normal (standard), and Low (dark).

Audio

X/Y Microphone Configuration: The Q8n-4K Handy Video Recorder has two matched unidirectional microphones, configured in a fixed 120˚ X/Y stereo configuration, which can handle sound levels up to 120dB SPL. In the X/Y configuration, the mics are aimed in a crossing pattern. This captures sound from a nearby sound source with natural depth and width. The result is a 3-dimensional sound stage for solo performances, live rehearsals, and field recordings. The microphone assembly can also be quickly and easily swapped out with one of Zoom's optional microphone capsules such as the VRH-8 Ambisonic mic capsule or the SGH-6 Shotgun mic capsule (both sold separately). A foam windscreen is provided for use outdoors.

XLR Inputs: Two XLR jacks on the Handy Video Recorder let you connect mics, mixers, or instruments and record them along with audio from the built-in microphone system, for simultaneous 4-channel audio recording. Rear-panel buttons let you quickly select Mic, Ch.1, and Ch. 2. Phantom power can be applied to the XLR inputs via a rear-panel switch. Menu options let you select the voltage: +12V, +24V, or +48V.

Input Levels: The X/Y microphone system and the two XLR inputs each include their own audio input adjustment dial for attaining proper signal levels. The rear-panel input selection buttons will light if the input signal starts to clip or distort for that channel.

PAD: A rear-panel switch lets you apply a -20dB pad (attenuation) when running line-level (+4dB) signals into the XLR inputs.

Audio Recording: Audio can be recorded in uncompressed WAV format with the following options: 96kHz/24-bit, 96kHz/16-bit, 48kHz/24-bit, 48kHz/16-bit, 44.1kHz/24-bit, and 44.1kHz/16-bit. The camera can be set to record audio only if needed.

Low-Frequency Noise Reduction: A low-pass filter can be applied to the audio input when recording. This can help reduce low frequency "rumble" caused by wind, HVAC systems, and the vocal proximity effect. Six options are available: 80Hz, 120Hz, 160Hz, 200Hz, 240Hz, or Off.

DSP Effects: Five DSP effects, along with Off, can be selected for each audio channel:

• Compressor: Raises low-level sounds and compresses high-level sounds for a more even audio signal.
• Limiter: This keeps the volume below a certain threshold, preventing distortion.
• Leveler: Automatically adjusts the recording level to keep it at a certain level when the input signal varies.
• De-esser: Suppresses sibilance or the "s" sounds in conversation.
• Noise Gate: When the input signal drops below a certain threshold, background noise will be suppressed.

Mixer: A Mixer Screen lets you individually adjust the levels of the 4 audio inputs along with the stereo Master Output. Additional adjustments for each channel include: Level, Pan, FX, and LoCut.

Built-In Speaker: The Q8n-4K features a 300mW/8-ohm mono speaker for listening to recorded sound during playback.

Additional Features

MicroSD Card Slot: Video and audio are recorded onto microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC memory cards up to 512 GB. You should use SD cards with a Class 10 speed rating or higher, as well as format the card in the unit, for best results. A list of tested and confirmed SD cards is available on the Zoom website.

Self-Timer: The Q8n-4K can be set to start recording after a time delay. Options include: Off, 3 sec, 5 sec, and 10 sec.

Fold-Out LCD Screen: The recorder features a 2" full-color LCD screen (320 x 240) for framing your subjects during recording, and to play back your videos. When folded inward, the screen can be used for recording other people or objects. When folded outward, the screen faces the same direction as the lens ("selfie" mode) for recording yourself.

Optional App Control: The Zoom Handy Video Recorder features a front-panel slot for installing an optional Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter (sold separately). This allows the recorder to be controlled remotely from your iOS smartphone using the Q8n Control app (iOS only).

Power Options: The Q8n-4K includes a 3.7V/1600mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery for powering the camera. The battery can be recharged via a USB-C port on the camera and the included USB-A to USB-C cable connected to a computer. An optional Zoom AD-17 AC adapter (sold separately) can also be used for powering and recharging the camera.

• Operating Times:
  • 4K/30: Approximately 1 hr / 20 mins
  • 1080/30: Approximately 2 hrs / 30 mins

• Recharging Times:
  • USB 2.0: Approximately 4 hrs / 30 mins
  • USB 3.0: Approximately 3 hrs
  • Zoom AD-17 (optional): Approximately 3 hrs

Inputs and Outputs: The rear panel contains connections for other devices:

• HDMI Output: A Micro HDMI (Type D) connection is provided for connecting the Q8n-4K to an HDTV.
• USB: A USB-C port is provided for connecting the unit to a computer to download recordings and recharge the Li-ion battery. Through this connection, the Q8n-4K can be used as a memory card reader or a USB microphone and web camera for live video streaming.
• Microphone Inputs: Two XLR jacks let you connect microphones, instruments, or line outputs from a mixer.
• Headphone/Line Output: A 3.5mm stereo headphone/line output is provided for listening to audio while recording or during playback, as well as for running analog audio out to additional equipment.

Mounting: The Zoom Q8n-4K has a standard 1/4"-20 tripod thread on the bottom which allows you to attach the recorder to a standard tripod.

Dimensions:

• In Use:
  • Width = 2.62", 4.86" w/screen out
  • Height = 5.26"
  • Depth = 5.27"
• Folded:
  • Width = 2.62"
  • Height = 2.47"
  • Depth = 6.34"