The Zoom Q8 Handy Video Recorder combines high resolution video with high definition audio. It uses Zoom's interchangeable mic system and has two XLR combo inputs meaning you have a huge amount of audio capturing options. Combine this with its 160 degree wide-angle lens and you have a the perfect camera for music and video creators everywhere.
The Q8 comes included with its own specially designed, detachable X/Y microphone. This microphone capsule covers a wide area yet maintains a strong centre image. The two matched unidirectional condenser microphones are set at 120 degrees from one another, giving an immersive stereo sound that compliments the wide-angle image delivered by the Q8 lens. The interchangeable mic system, and dual XLR combo inputs, means you have a wealth of options for swapping different microphones for different purposes. The microphones used for the Zoom H5 and H6 are all compatible with the Q8.
A low-cut filter allows you to eliminate low-frequency noise and rumble along with the foam windscreen. Furthermore, there are three Auto Gain settings, as well as a built in compressor and limiter. When recording audio, you have the option of recording along with video, or as a standalone stereo or four-channel audio-only recorder.
The Q8 gives you an image that's beyond HD. It offers a resolution of 2304 x 1296 pixels at 30fps /24mbps, but also features 720p and a frame rate option of 60fps for capturing fast action movement. Furthermore, it can record in standard quality giving you plenty of options when it comes to storage and streaming. The 160° wide-angle lens with a F2.0 aperture makes sure that you capture every moment with realistic and sharp definition. The Q8 offers flexibly to different lighting conditions with three "Scene" presets.
The Q8 features a USB port, enabling the device to be used as a webcam for live streaming or a USB microphone. It can also be used in connection with other equipment and computer software, and when using the Apple Camera Connection Kit, even your iOS device. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery that boasts a battery life of more than two hours when shooting at 720p/30fps.
The Q8 records directly to SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards and supports cards of up to 128GB. All video is stored in MOV file format with different various HD settings for maximum video quality, or you can shoot in standard definition (SVGA) when space or streaming bandwidth is at a premium. Recorded audio can be integrated to the MOV file, or can be saved separately from the video data.
The main features of the Zoom Q8 Handy Video Recorder include:
- High-quality 160° wide angle lens with selectable viewing angles (F 2.0/16.6mm)
- Uses a system of interchangeable audio input capsules that can be swapped out as easily as the lens of a camera
- Supplied detachable stereo X/Y microphone (XYQ-8)
- Compatible with all Zoom microphone capsules (sold separately)
- Full-colour rotating LCD touchscreen
- Support for five HD video modes, up to 2304 x 1296 pixels (3M HD), as well as two WVGA modes
- Frame rates of up to 60 fps for capturing fast action video and slow motion playback
- Three imaging sense options (AUTO/CONCERT/NIGHT) for use in all lighting environments
- Self timer
- Digital zoom
- Records video in MOV format (with or without audio)
- Records audio in AAC and WAV formats, up to 24-bit/96k
- Up to four tracks of simultaneous audio recording
- Two mic/line inputs with XLR/TRS combo connectors, each with selectable phantom power and -20dB pad
- Analog-style gain controls for each input
- Built-in audio mixer
- Stereo link function
- Auto-Gain control plus built-in compressor and limiter
- MS Matrix function converts Mid-Side signal from external mics to standard stereo
- Supplied foam windscreen and low-cut filter for the elimination of low-frequency noise and rumble
- Dedicated Headphone output / Line out
- Built-in speaker for fast monitoring
- HDMI video output for connection to HDTVs, selectable between NTSC and PAL
- USB interface for live streaming and data transfer to and from computer editing software
- Webcam and USB mic function for use with external devices such as computers and iPads (Apple Camera Connection Kit required)
- Direct monitoring for zero latency during use as a USB mic
- Compatible with USTREAM Producer, Flash live Media Encorder, Skype, and other popular streaming applications
- SD card reader function
- Records directly to SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, up to 128GB
- Rechargeable Li-Ion battery (chargeable via USB or optional AC adapter)
- Battery life of more than 2 hours
- Standard tripod mount
- Includes tripod-to-three-prong converter for compatibility with all action camera mounts