User manual
Zoom Q8 Video Recorder Single-Person Rig

User Manual for Zoom Q8 Video Recorder Single-Person Rig with Stereo Audio Recording Kit

• Product category: Consumer Camcorders Zoom
• Brand: Zoom
• Description and content of package
• Technical information and basic settings
• Frequently asked questions – FAQ
• Troubleshooting (does not switch on, does not respond, error message, what do I do if...)
• Authorized service for Zoom Consumer Camcorders

Product description

• Zoom Q8 Handy Video Recorder
  • Zoom Q8 Handy Recorder: Quick Look
  • Zoom Q8 Product Video
  Designed for both music and video creators, the Zoom Q8 Handy Video Recorder combines HD video recording with Zoom's high-quality audio capture technology. It features a wide-angle 160° lens to capture the entire scene or stage, and records beyond Full HD resolution video up to 2304x1296 at 30 fps. On the audio side, the Q8 records up to 24-bit/96 kHz audio and inherits the interchangeable microphone system of Zoom's H5 and H6 recorders, making it compatible with a variety of optional mic capsules. Included with the Q8 is a 120° X/Y stereo condenser microphone capsule well-suited to capturing live events, concerts, or videos of yourself playing with studio-quality sound. The Q8 also features dual XLR/TRS inputs for inputting professional microphone and line-level sources, giving you up to four simultaneous channels of audio when combined with the X/Y mic capsule.
  
  In addition to 2304x2196 video recording, the Q8 can capture 1080p video at 30 fps and 720p video at 60 or 30 fps to SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards up to 128GB in size. It can also record WVGA video at 60 or 30 fps when lower file sizes are needed. Video can be monitored on a flip-out 2.7" touchscreen LCD, which also provides a convenient interface for adjusting video and audio settings. A micro HDMI port allows you to connect the camcorder to your HDTV to watch your footage. When it comes to recording audio, the Q8 provides a lot of options. When highest-quality audio is needed, you can record using 16 or 24-bit uncompressed WAV formats at 96, 48, or 44.1 kHz. When audio quality isn't as important and you want to save space on your SD card, you can choose to record audio using the compressed AAC format with bit rates from 64 to 320 kbps. A headphone/line output jack is provided for monitoring your audio.
  
  By connecting the Q8 to your computer via USB you can use it as a card reader or a USB microphone. You can even use it as a high-quality USB webcam to stream audio and video. The USB port also provides power for charging the included 1700mAh lithium-ion battery. Also included with the Q8 are a foam windscreen, USB cable, and a 1/4"-20 to three-prong adapter for use with GoPro-style mounting accessories.
  Beyond HD Recording
  • The Q8 captures up to 2304x1296 video at 30 fps, which gives you more resolution than Full HD 1080p. The extra resolution is useful when you want to crop or reframe a shot. You can also record in standard 1080p at 30 fps, as well as 720p video at 30 or 60 fps. Additionally, you can choose to record lower resolution WVGA formats when smaller file sizes are needed. Video is recorded in the .MOV format.
  160° Wide-Angle Lens
  • With a wide 160° angle of view, the Q8's lens captures nearly everything in front of it. This lets you get the camera closer to the action to record clearer audio of your subject, while still capturing the entire scene. When an ultra-wide perspective isn't what you're after, a step-zoom feature lets you select from five narrower FOV options for tighter-framed shots.
  High-Quality Audio Recording
  • The Q8 gives you the same high-quality audio formats as Zoom's dedicated audio recorders. You can record in AAC and WAV formats, up to 24-bit/96 kHz. Outboard audio controls and a touchscreen LCD let you quickly adjust and fine-tune your audio settings, including adjusting volume, gain, and low-cut filter. Audio can be recorded along with video or separately, enabling the Q8 to function as a standalone four-channel audio recorder.
  Detachable Stereo X/Y Condenser Microphone Capsule
  • The Q8 comes equipped with a detachable X/Y stereo microphone capsule that features two matched unidirectional condenser microphones set at 120° apart. The microphones feature a maximum sound pressure input of 140 dB SPL and an input gain up to +47 dB. Because the capsule is detachable, the camera is also compatible with other Zoom microphone capsules. This means that if you already own an H5 or H6, you can swap capsules between devices.
    
    Note: EXH-6 TRS/XLR Combo Capsule is not compatible with the Q8.
  Dual XLR/TRS Combo Inputs
  • Dual XLR/TRS combo jacks let you input audio from external microphones and line-level sources. Each input has selectable phantom power and -20 dB pads.
    
    Input Gain (PAD off): -∞ to 55 dB
    Input Gain (PAD on): -∞ to 35 dB
    Input Impedance: 1.8 kOhms or more
    Maximum Input Level: +22 dBu (PAD on)
    Phantom Power: +12 / +24 / +48V
    Equivalent Input Noise: -120 dBu or less
  2.7" LCD Touchscreen
  • The 2.7" LCD touchscreen can be rotated to be viewed from a variety of angles. When the screen is positioned to face the front of the camera, the image rotates so it is right side up. This is useful when recording videos of yourself playing. The touchscreen interface makes it easy to adjust video and audio settings.
  USB Microphone/Webcam
  • By connecting to a computer using a USB cable, you can use this recorder as a card reader or USB mic, as well as a web camera to stream audio and video. You can also connect it to an iPad using the optional Apple Camera Connection Kit. The camera is compatible with Ustream Producer, Flash Live Media Encoder, Skype, and other popular streaming applications.
    
    Operation as Mass Storage: USB 2.0 High Speed
    Operation as Audio Interface: Class: USB 2.0 Full Speed, 16-bit/44.1 kHz
    Operation as Webcam: WVGA/720p video size, 16-bit/48 kHz audio
  Scene Presets
  • Choose among three different lighting settings. For most situations, choosing "Auto" will give you the best results, as it adjusts lighting conditions automatically. You can also select "Concert Lighting", which is better suited for live shows, concerts, and other situations with bright lights, or "Night" for maximizing results when recording at night or in dark environments.
  Lighting Settings
  • Choose among three different lighting settings. For most situations, choosing "Auto" will give you the best, clearest results, as it adjusts lighting conditions automatically. You can also select "Concert Lighting", which is better suited for live shows, concerts, and other situations with bright lights. Choose "Night" for maximizing results when recording at night or in dark environments.
  Camera Mounting
  • In addition to a 1/4"-20 threaded hole, the Zoom Q8 can be used with GoPro-compatible mounts using the included 1/4"-20 to three-prong adapter. This makes it easy to attach the camera to a mic stand, clamp it to a guitar, or place it anywhere onstage or rehearsal room.
  Additional Features
  • • Records to SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards up to 128GB
    • Built-in audio mixer
    • Stereo link function
    • MS Matrix function converts Mid-Side signal from external mics to standard stereo
    • Low-cut filter (80 Hz, 120 Hz, 160 Hz)
    • Dynamics control (Limiter, Compressor, Leveler)
    • Combo headphones/line output jack for audio monitoring
    • Built-in 400MW monaural speaker
    • HDMI output for connection to HDTVs; selectable between NTSC and PAL
    • 1700mAh Lithium-ion battery provides more than two hours when shooting at 720p 30 fps (longer in audio-only recording)
    • Foam windscreen included
  UPC: 884354014759
• Senal SCI-3212MP Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone with Interchangeable Capsules (Matched Pair)
  • Zoom Q8 Handy Recorder: Quick Look
  • Zoom Q8 Product Video
  The match-pair of SCI-3212MP Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone with Interchangeable Capsules from Senal are electret condenser microphones with omnidirectional, cardioid, and supercardioid polar patterns. The microphones' quick transient response and high sensitivity assure detailed and accurate sound in capturing audio for instruments such as pianos, acoustic guitars, and percussion, as well as for dialog when recording outdoors in high-noise environments.The SCI-3212MP are built with durable metal chassis and have gold-plated XLR connectors, which resist corrosion and deliver better signal transfer. Each mic's high-SPL-handling is suitable for recording in high-noise situations and enables close-mic placement to snares and cymbals, without distortion. Together, both mics can be used as a stereo pair for overheads on a drum kit or for capturing the ambiance of a room.A shockmount is also included for easy boompole-mounting when capturing dialog indoors or in the studio, and a foam windscreen minimizes wind noise when shooting outdoors.
  Three Interchangeable Capsules
  • The adaptability of each SCI-3212 is its greatest asset. The omnidirectional, cardioid, and supercardioid capsules can be changed effortlessly. The multiple polar patterns allow you to use the microphone in a wide variety of configurations when capturing music, dialog, or ambiance in a studio or in the field.
  Accurate Sound
  • The natural response of the SCI-3212, together with its wide-frequency response and sensitivity, translate to better sound in diverse recording scenarios.
  High-SPL-Handling
  • Each microphone's high-SPL-handling makes it a suitable choice for recording drum overheads, snares, cymbals, or other sound sources in high-noise environments.
  Gold-Plated Connector
  • The gold-plated XLR connector resists corrosion and assures better signal transfer.
  Durable Metal Chassis
  • The durable metal chassis allows the microphone to withstand the rigors of the road, as well as in studios or on location.
  Tools for Recording in the Field
  • A shockmount is included to minimize noise from handling or vibration, and a foam windscreen is provided to minimize wind noise for outdoor use.
  Carrying Case
  • The microphones are securely housed in their own aluminum carrying case with high-density foam cutouts to protect against impacts, dust, debris, and the general rigors of the road.
  UPC: 847628592599
• K&M 23510 Microphone Bar
  • Zoom Q8 Handy Recorder: Quick Look
  • Zoom Q8 Product Video
  The 23510 Microphone Bar from K&M is a microphone bar that connects to the top of a microphone stand. This unit will accommodate up to (3) microphone or booms. It features a clamp to facilitate management of microphones and their placement.
  Microphone Bar
  • Use this bar to mount up to (3) microphone or booms.
  Clamp
  • A clamping mechanism makes for easier management of this unit.
• K&M 215 Thread Adapter, 1/2 and 3/8" Female Thread, 5/8" 27 Gauge Male Thread (Zinc-Coated)
  • Zoom Q8 Handy Recorder: Quick Look
  • Zoom Q8 Product Video
  The zinc-plated 215 Thread Adapter from K&M features a 1/2 and 3/8" female thread to a 5/8" 27 gauge male thread. It can be used to adapt a 3/8" and 1/2" stand to a 5/8" attachment.
• On-Stage CM01 - 5/8" 27-thread to 1/4" Camera and Microphone Stand Adapter
  • Zoom Q8 Handy Recorder: Quick Look
  • Zoom Q8 Product Video
  The On-Stage CM01 Camera and Recorder Mount enables lightweight video cameras, point-and-shoot cameras and recording devices to be mounted onto standard microphone stands. The CM01 features a fully adjustable neck and ball joint for easy positioning and control. UPC: 659814490899
• Auray Universal Microphone Pistol Grip
  • Zoom Q8 Handy Recorder: Quick Look
  • Zoom Q8 Product Video
  The Auray Universal Microphone Pistol Grip is a handheld grip that features an ergonomic cushioned handle. This grip is great in "run & gun" situations in which a boom pole would be cumbersome, and in video scenarios in which the cameraman is also responsible for audio recording. The grip can be held with one hand, as opposed to a boom pole which requires two. It also provides the option of being able to record audio from a different direction than the camera is pointing, an advantage over camera mounting the mic. Furthermore, having the mic mounted off the camera prevents it from picking up motor noise from the lens focusing.
  
  In addition, the grip features standard 3/8" threads on both ends. This allows you to attach your shotgun mic (with shockmount) to one end of the grip and mount the other end to a boom pole. This gives you the flexibility of being able to quickly detach the pistol grip and the attached shotgun mic from the boom, an option that can come in handy for entering areas that are too small for a boom pole. UPC: 847628562738
• 2 x Pearstone PM Series XLR M to XLR F Professional Microphone Cable - 1' (0.3 m)
  • Zoom Q8 Handy Recorder: Quick Look
  • Zoom Q8 Product Video
  The Pearstone PM Series XLR M to XLR F Professional Microphone Cable (1') features 24-gauge oxygen-free copper conductors, spiral shielding to protect against EMI and RFI noise, and professional grade cast-zinc Rean connectors with silver-plated contacts. The twin conductive PVC shield reduces electrostatic noise, and distinguishes the PM series from the rest of its class.
  • Professional quality, field-serviceable, cast-zinc Rean connectors with silver-plated contacts
  • Twin conductive PVC shield reduces electrostatic noise
  • 24-gauge oxygen-free copper conductors
  • Spiral shielding to protect against EMI and RFI noise
  UPC: 847628557635

• Senal - SCI-3212MP Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone with Interchangeable Capsules (Matched Pair) tsxxqvcyzzxdf

• K&M - 23510 Microphone Bar

• K&M - 215 Thread Adapter, 1/2 and 3/8" Female Thread, 5/8" 27 Gauge Male Thread (Zinc-Coated)

• On-Stage - CM01 - 5/8" 27-thread to 1/4" Camera and Microphone Stand Adapter

• Auray - Universal Microphone Pistol Grip

• 2 x Pearstone - PM Series XLR M to XLR F Professional Microphone Cable - 1' (0.3 m)

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Technical parameters

• Zoom Q8 Handy Video Recorder

  Sensor	1-Chip 1/3" CMOS
  Sensor Resolution	3 MP

  35mm-Equivalent Focal Length	16.6
  Maximum Aperture	f/2
  Minimum Focusing Distance	14.2" / 36.0 cm
  Fixed Focus	Yes
  Angle of View	160°
  Zoom	Digital

  System	NTSC
  Recording Media	x SD/SDHC/SDXC (128 GB Maximum)
  Video Format	2304 x 1296p at 30 fps (24 Mb/s H.264) 1920 x 1080p at 30 fps (H.264) 1280 x 720p at 30/60 fps (H.264) 800 x 480 at 30/60 fps (H.264)
  Aspect Ratio	16:9
  Microphone Recording Angle	120°
  Channels	Stereo
  Audio Format	AAC WAV
  Sampling Frequency	AAC: 48.0 kHz WAV: 96.0 kHz WAV: 48.0 kHz WAV: 44.1 kHz
  Bit Rate	AAC: 320.0 Kb/s AAC: 256.0 Kb/s AAC: 192.0 Kb/s AAC: 128.0 Kb/s AAC: 64.0 Kb/s WAV: 24.0-Bit WAV: 16.0-Bit

  Display Type	LCD
  Touchscreen	Yes
  Screen Size	2.7"

  Self-Timer	3, 5, 10 Sec

  Scene Modes	Preset: Yes
  Built-In Mic	Yes
  Built-In Speaker	Yes
  Accessory Shoe	None
  Tripod Mount	1/4" - 20

  Inputs	2 x XLR / TRS combo jacks
  Outputs	1 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm Stereo combined line/headphone 1 x Micro-HDMI (Type D) 1 x USB Mini-B USB 2.0
  Microphone Input	Yes
  Headphone Jack	Yes

  Battery	Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, 3.7-4.2 VDC, 1700 mAh Max Runtime: 2 Hours per Charge
  Charging Method	USB
  Charging Time	4.5 Hours
  Dimensions (W x H x D)	6.2 x 1.9 x 2.7" / 15.8 x 4.8 x 6.9 cm Mic lowered 6.2 x 1.9 x 4.7" / 15.8 x 4.8 x 11.9 cm Mic raised 2.0 x 1.5 x 1.3" / 5.0 x 3.7 x 3.2 cm X/Y mic capsule
  Weight	10.58 oz / 300 g Recorder 1.41 oz / 40 g X/Y mic capsule

  Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	8.9 x 8.2 x 3.0"

• Senal SCI-3212MP Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone with Interchangeable Capsules (Matched Pair)

  Sound Field	Mono
  Transducer	Electret Condenser
  Polar Pattern	Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Supercardioid
  Pattern Selection	Switched
  Frequency Range	30 Hz to 18 kHz
  Equivalent Noise Level	-27 dB A-Weighted
  Maximum SPL	135 dB SPL RMS
  Load Impedance	1000 Ohms
  Sensitivity	-36 dB at 1 kHz

  Output Connectors	1 x 3-Pin XLR
  Operating Voltage	9 to 52 V
  Length	5" / 127.00 mm
  Diameter	0.8" / 20.32 mm
  Weight	3.8 oz / 108 g

  Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	11.732 x 9.842 x 8.268"

• K&M 23510 Microphone Bar

  Construction	Metal
  Finish	Black
  Dimensions	6" length
  Weight	Not specified by manufacturer

  Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	8.9 x 1.2 x 1.1"

• K&M 215 Thread Adapter, 1/2 and 3/8" Female Thread, 5/8" 27 Gauge Male Thread (Zinc-Coated)

  Female Thread Size	1/2" (13 mm) 3/8" (9.5 mm)
  Male Thread Size	5/8" (16 mm) 27 gauge
  Type	Zinc-plated
  Dimensions	Not listed by manufacturer
  Weight	0.35 oz (9.92 g)

  Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	0.01 x 0.01 x 0.01"

• On-Stage CM01 - 5/8" 27-thread to 1/4" Camera and Microphone Stand Adapter

  Thread	5/8" 27-thread to 1/4" Adapter
  Tilt	Pan/Tilt Ball-head: 180°

  Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	5.0 x 4.9 x 1.1"

• Auray Universal Microphone Pistol Grip

  Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	6.1 x 2.8 x 1.7"

• 2 x Pearstone PM Series XLR M to XLR F Professional Microphone Cable - 1' (0.3 m)

  Connector 1	3-Pin XLR Male
  Connector 2	3-Pin XLR Female
  Cable Length	1' / 0.3 m
  Shielding	Copper Spiral
  Conductor Material	Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC)
  Wire Gauge	24 AWG
  Contact Plating	Silver
  Jacket Type	Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

  Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	4.0 x 3.3 x 1.1"

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