The best multitrack recorder can completely change the way you make music, turning messy setups into smooth, creative sessions. After years of struggling with gear that got in the way, I finally got a good recorder that just worked, allowing me to focus entirely on my sound. For any musician, podcaster, or audio engineer, a solid multitrack recorder isn’t just a tool, it’s the key to capturing ideas clearly, layering tracks with precision, and producing professional-quality recordings anywhere.
The Best Multitrack Recorders – Digital | The Best Multitrack Recorders – Digital Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
8 to 10 Tracks  | 89 | 1100+ | |||
12 Tracks  | 89 | 970+ | |||
16 Tracks  | 92 | 252+ | |||
20 Tracks  | 91 | 525+ | |||
24 Tracks  | 92 | 1300+ |
*Gearank = Rating score out of 100.
**Sources = Number of gear owner and user opinions analyzed for these product Gearank Ratings.
Research Process: How Gearank Works
Whether I’m layering vocals, tracking a full band, or capturing a live set, having a solid recorder means each take gets its own space, ready to mix and shape just like in a pro studio.
With today’s technology, these recorders bring together portability, straightforward operation, and powerful features that make recording anywhere feel natural and inspiring. From ultra-compact, battery-powered units perfect for quick demos to full-on digital workstations that can handle complex sessions, there’s a tool for every creative flow.
In this guide, I’ll share my top-rated picks for 2025 so you can find the one that fits your setup and helps you make music the way you want, wherever inspiration hits.
Best Multitrack Recorders
Boss Micro BR BR-80
The BOSS MICRO BR BR-80 is one of those little recorders that surprises you with how much it can do. At first glance, it looks like just a compact pocket recorder, but once you start digging in, you realize it’s basically three tools in one: a multitrack recorder, a stereo field recorder, and an eBand practice tool.
Pros:
- Ultra-portable with a surprising number of features
- Solid multitrack recording capability
- Handy practice and learning tools
- Good sound quality for its size
- Runs on batteries or USB power
- Small screen and button-heavy navigation can feel fiddly
- Built-in mics and amp models are good for demos, but not pro-level
- No XLR inputs (just 1/4″ and 1/8″), so you’ll need adapters for some mics
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This thing is small enough to throw into a guitar case or even a jacket pocket, making it super handy for traveling musicians or anyone who wants to capture ideas on the go.
The build feels solid for its size, though the controls can feel a bit cramped if you’re trying to do a lot of editing right on the device. I mostly used it for quick recordings and overdubs, and for that, it’s perfect.
For a handheld unit, the sound quality holds up well. The preamps are clean enough for demo work, and the 24-bit/44.1kHz recording gives you plenty of clarity. I’ve even used a couple of BR-80-recorded tracks in finished projects after a bit of EQ and compression.
There’s a bit of a learning curve, especially if you’re used to touchscreen interfaces, but once you get the hang of the menus, it’s pretty straightforward.
I found myself using it most as a musical notepad, just hit record and capture ideas without worrying about setting up a DAW.
The BOSS MICRO BR BR-80 has become one of the go-to tools for catching ideas and practicing on the fly. It won’t replace a proper studio setup, but that’s not what it’s for.
If you want a reliable, pocket-sized multitrack recorder that doubles as a practice companion, the BR-80 is still one of the most versatile options out there.
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 2
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 8
- Virtual tracks: 64
- Inputs: 1 x Guitar/Mic and 1 x line level
- Outputs: Phones/Line out + USB
- Sample rate: 44.1kHz
- Bit rate: 24-bit
- On-board effects: EQ, reverb, 40 amp models, mastering tools, vocal processing including doubling, harmony effects, pitch correction, and more
- Effects send: No
- USB audio interface: 2 channels
- Storage medium: SD/SDHC card – up to 32GB
- Export tracks to computer: Yes
Zoom LiveTrak L-8
Designed for musicians and podcasters, this portable recorder doubles as a portable streaming mixer. It is a versatile choice for mobile recording with built-in effects and battery power options.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- 12-track simultaneous recording
- Works as a USB audio interface
- Built-in digital mixer with sound pads
- Battery-powered option
- Faders are quite small.
- Plastic build
- Limited EQ and effects
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The Zoom LiveTrak L-8 is a versatile, compact multitrack recorder designed for musicians, podcasters, and small live performances. With 8 input channels and the ability to record up to 12 tracks simultaneously, it offers impressive flexibility for its size.
Its built-in digital mixer allows for real-time adjustments, and the dedicated mix-minus function makes it a favorite among podcasters who need easy integration for remote interviews.
It has the ability to function as both a standalone recorder and a USB audio interface, making it a great option for those who work between live recording and studio production.
The onboard sound pads add an extra layer of creativity, letting users trigger effects or pre-recorded samples on the fly. The intuitive layout and battery power capability make it an ideal choice for mobile setups, but some users might find its small faders a bit limiting for precise mixing.
While the LiveTrak L-8 offers a ton of value, it does have a few downsides. The plastic build, while lightweight, may not be as rugged as some other options in the market. Additionally, its EQ and effects are somewhat basic compared to larger mixing consoles.
However, for those looking for an affordable and feature-packed multitrack recorder, the Zoom LiveTrak L-8 is the best digital multitrack recorder for solid performance without breaking the bank.
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 10 (plus 2 stereo tracks if direct to DAW)
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 10
- Virtual tracks: 6 with undo/redo history function on all tracks
- Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo (mic/line/Hi-Z), 4 x XLR-1/4″ combo (mic/line), 2 x 1/4″ TS (ch 7/8), 1 x 1/8″ TRRS (smartphone)
- Outputs: 2 x XLR, 4 x 1/4″ TRS , USB
- Sample rate:96kHz
- Bit rate: 24-bit
- On-board effects: 4 x Reverbs, Delay, Chorus, Vocal, 3-band EQ, 75Hz Highpass Filter
- Effects send: Internal
- USB audio interface: Yes
- Storage medium: SDHC/SDXC Card Slot
- Export tracks to computer: Yes, plus capability to simultaneously act as an audio interface/livestream source
TASCAM Model 16
This all-in-one analog-style mixer and multitrack recorder delivers warm, vintage-style sound with modern digital flexibility. Ideal for small bands and solo artists, it provides a seamless workflow for live performance and studio production.
Pros:
- Great routing options
- Hybrid mixing workflow and analog summing a great plus
- Enough inputs for a full band
- Has a bit of a learning curve
- Would have been perfect with motorized faders
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The Tascam Model Series 16 expands upon Model 12’s features by adding inputs and outputs.
The control room outputs add flexibility for use with larger studios while the additional inputs enable miking up more tracks, especially drums or full band setups.
60mm faders, classic 3 band EQ, inline compression for select channels, and flexible aux and fx routing give a familiar feel for those used to analog mixer workflows. The HDDI Preamps ensure excellent quality captures with low noise.
As with all Model series mixers from Tascam, you can route the audio from your DAW (Digital Audio Workstations) into the mixer and back into the DAW for analog mixing and summing.
The Model 16 strikes a good balance of inputs and portability compared to its 12 and 24 track siblings. One change over model 12 is how the inputs are on top rather than behind. This makes it easier to plug XLR cables in and out.
One thing to note is that there is a steep learning curve, which is expected since it requires people used to digital workflows to adapt to analog workflows and vice versa. Another thing I wish it had is motorized faders so it could function as a full-fledged DAW controller.
The Tascam Model 16 has been gaining more traction as the favored all-in-one solution “middle child” of the Model series. Get it if you feel the Model 24 might be too much and the Model 12 might be too restricting.
- Simultaneous recording tracks:14
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 8 Mono, 3 stereo
- Virtual tracks: 0
- Inputs:2 x 1/4″ (line/Hi-Z), 6 x 1/4″ (line), 4 x 1/4″ (2 x stereo), 1 x 1/8″ (stereo), 1 x Dual RCA Stereo
- Outputs:2 x XLR (main), 2 x 1/4″ (control room), 2 x 1/4″ (L/R subgroup)
- Sample rate: 48kHz
- Bit rate: 24-bit
- On-board effects: 8 x Channel Compressor, Reverbs, Delay, Chorus, Flanger
- Effects send: Internal
- USB audio interface: Yes
- Storage medium: SD Card Slot, SDHC (4GB-32GB), SDXC (64GB-512GB)
- Export tracks to computer: Yes
Zoom LiveTrak L-20
With 20 channels and flexible mixing options, this powerhouse is built for serious musicians and live sound engineers. Its ability to record multi-track audio while mixing live sets makes it an essential tool for professional performances.
Pros:
- Individual monitor mixes great for live performances
- Enough inputs for larger bands
- Solo button added (L-12 does not have it)
- EQ affects monitor mix
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The Zoom LiveTrak L-20 is Zoom’s flagship Multitrack Recorder / Digital Mixer hybrid. It features functionality more akin to dedicated digital Mixing Consoles while balancing multitrack recorder and mixer functionality.
The L-20 also adds a solo button for each channel- a feature missing on the L-12.
One feature that stands out is the ability to provide six personalized headphone mixes while recording. This is a boon to bands and singers that need individual mixes on their monitors. This makes it an excellent live recording mixer for venues and production studios.
Note that the EQ channel also affects the monitors. Front-of-house (FOH) mixes going out through the monitors is usually a recipe for feedback. There might be trouble in finding a compromise between having a good audience mix and a good monitor mix.
The LiveTrak L-20 is excellent for recording and monitoring live sessions, which are increasingly popular as YouTube content. The linked channel EQ for the FOH and monitor mix may be better for live sound. For your rehearsal space, studio, or radio station, the LiveTrak L-20 is a handy tool for capturing performances.
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 22
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 20
- Virtual tracks: 0
- Inputs: 16 x XLR/TRS combo jacks, 2 x Stereo Line in
- Outputs: 2 x XLR Master out, 2 x TRS phone jacks Monitor speaker out, 6 x Headphone monitor mix out, 1 x Headphone out
- Sample rate: 44.1/48/96 kHz
- Bit rate: 16/24-bit, mono/stereo
- On-board effects: 20 Types of Reverb, Delay and Modulation
- Effects send: 2
- USB audio interface: 22 Channels In, 4 Channels out
- Storage medium: SDHC/SDXC
- Export tracks to computer: Yes
TASCAM DP-24SD
A powerful standalone recorder that lets you create polished, professional tracks without needing a computer. Its hands-on controls, built-in effects, and 24-track capability make it a studio in a box for serious musicians.
Pros:
- Intuitive workflow
- Built-in effects
- Decent amp simulations
- Only one effect at a time per track
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The TASCAM DP-24SD is designed to be a standalone audio workstation. While this means that it does not offer any DAW controller or USB audio interface features, the design approach allows you to do all of your music production onboard. This is very different from the usual series recorders that rely on computers.
It lets you export tracks to your computer via USB. It also features a complete suite of internal effects, 24-track (simultaneous playback tracks), and 8 takes on virtual tracks ready for compositing.
Going DAW-less usually means leaving behind your VSTs and amp simulations. The Tascam DP-24 has them built in, and they sound decent. The workflow feels like you’re working between a mix of a DAW and mixing live music with a digital mixer. Familiarity with both makes the DP-24SD a lot easier to transition to.
One limitation is that you can’t simultaneously use more than one dynamic effect on a single track – for example, you can’t use the de-esser and compressor or compressor and noise suppression simultaneously on one track. The same applies to time-based effects since you can’t have reverb and delay at the same time. You can work around this by utilizing bouncing and virtual tracks, but it would have been better if you didn’t have to. Motorized faders would be the icing on the cake but would increase the price.
Overall, this is an excellent all-in-one multitracker/recorder for live performances. It’s also good for home studio use. Get it if you want to go DAW-less and enjoy a workflow similar to mixing live with a digital mixer.
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 8
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 24
- Virtual tracks: 192 – 8 virtual track per actual track
- Inputs: 8 x Combo XLR/TRS – 1 channel switchable between line and guitar – Phantom power on all 8 inputs
- Outputs: 2 x 1/4″ balanced TRS, 2 x RCA unbalanced, 1/4″ TRS headphone jack, 1/4″ TRS jack for effects send + USB
- Sample rate: 44.1k/48k
- Bit rate: 16/24-bit
- On-board effects: Many including 3-band EQ, reverb, compression, exciter, de-esser, noise suppression, amp models, mastering tools, and more
- Effects send: 2
- USB audio interface: No
- Storage medium: SD/SDHC card – up to 32GB
- Export tracks to computer: Yes via USB
Things to Consider When Buying a Digital Multitrack Recorder
What Is a Multitrack Recorder?
A multitrack recorder is one of those pieces of recording studio equipment that completely changes how you work. It lets you capture and manage multiple audio sources at the same time, giving you the control you’d expect in a proper studio setup but in a single unit.
Quick History
Back in 1979, TEAC introduced the 144 Portastudio, the first portable multitrack recorder to use cassette tapes, and it shook up music production. Suddenly, anyone could learn how to record music at home, and it sparked a wave of DIY creativity. TASCAM, TEAC’s pro audio division, followed up with recorders like the 414, and today brands like TASCAM and Zoom continue that legacy with versatile hybrid recorders like their “Model” series.
If you’re interested in smaller rigs for mobile recording, you can check out our guide to the best portable audio recorders.
Hardware vs Software
Multitrack recording comes in two flavors: digital multitrack recorders and software-based DAWs. Digital recorders are standalone systems with built-in preamps, converters, and I/O. They’re like having an all-in-one studio in a box, which is what we’re focusing on here. DAWs, on the other hand, are computer-based, offering virtual mixers, instruments, and editing tools. To use them, you’ll need a computer and an audio interface or USB audio interface to hook up your mics and instruments.
Why Multitrack Recording Matters
Recording track by track gives you the precision to tweak individual elements without touching the rest of your mix. It opens the door for creative layering and harmonies while giving you full control during mixing and editing.
Channels vs Tracks
It’s easy to mix up “channels” and “tracks.” Channels are your input sources, like mic preamps or line inputs. Tracks are the audio files you record, usually WAV files. A solo musician might only need two tracks at a time, while a full band will need more channels to capture everyone simultaneously.
Simultaneous Recording Channels
Digital recorders free you from bulky tape machines, but how many sources you can record at once depends on the inputs and the recorder’s processing power. For example, a unit might have 8 inputs for live recording but allow mixing up to 16 or more tracks. Always check the specs to be sure it fits your needs.
Total Number of Tracks for Mixing
Remember that an 8-track recorder means you can mix 8 tracks, no matter how many you can record at once. Manufacturers list recording channels and mixing capabilities separately, so look closely if you plan to record multiple instruments or large ensembles.
Virtual Tracks
Virtual tracks are lifesavers. They let you record multiple takes without deleting older ones and give you room to bounce down tracks while keeping the originals safe for later tweaks.
Effects
Since you can’t load plugins, pay attention to the onboard effects. Some recorders have built-in reverb, EQ, or compression, and others let you hook up outboard gear for more flexibility. Choosing the right effects upfront can save a lot of hassle.
Export Functions
Most digital recorders let you export tracks to a computer for further mixing and editing inside your favorite DAW.
Extra Features
Many models double as a USB audio interface for direct computer recording, and some include built-in stereo mics for quick, high-quality captures. I like this because it means fewer cables and less setup time.
Memory Considerations
Most recorders ship with small 1 or 2 GB SD cards, and some don’t include any at all. I always recommend grabbing a few larger SDHC cards, preferably 32 GB or more, since simultaneous multi-track sessions eat up memory fast. They’re inexpensive and easy to find locally or online from Sweetwater.com.
Best Multitrack Recorder Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in 2016. The current edition was published in July 2025.
We looked at all multitrack recorders available from major online American music gear retailers, excluding handheld, dedicated podcast, and field recorders. This allowed us to come up with a shortlist of 21 products, all of which were entered into our Music Gear Database.
We then analyzed forum discussions and reviews by users, owners, and audio engineers and processed that information, which included over 17080 sources, with the Gearank Algorithm to produce the rating scores out of 100 you see above. The highest-rated options were selected in each sub-category of track numbers to recommend above. For more information about our methods, see How Gearank Works.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide’s production – click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
I’m a big fan of the old-school recording process – “to tape” recording. Having the option to record without a computer frees up a lot of possibilities, especially for live recordings. For permanent setups like bars and venues, having a multitrack recorder that doubles as the house mixer enables you to record live performances to sync up with video footage. A great way to get your venue or event out there since live performances on YouTube tend to get a lot of views. I highly recommend this type of content creation, and multitrack recorders make it a lot more convenient.
Contributors
Alden Acosta & Jerome Arcon: Product research.
Alexander Briones: Supplemental writing.
Jason Horton: Editing and illustrating.
Media / Image Credit
Main/Top Image: Compiled using photographs of the TASCAM Model 16 and Zoom LiveTrak L-20.
All the videos above have been embedded in accordance with YouTube’s Terms of Service.
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials, or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers.
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Comments:
58 responses
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While its sampling rate maxes out at 48kHz, this is sufficient for most recording needs, especially in CD-quality audio production. A case in point is that it still ranks high, even with more “upgraded” options available. Its strengths are its 24-track capability, intuitive workflow, built-in effects, and solid build. It is ideal for musicians who prioritize functionality and simplicity over cutting-edge specs. Those who want higher sampling rates should look into more recent releases.
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Hi folks
I have had a ZOOM HD16 for over ten years – I can sync up my old MT200 sequencer for arranging a basic song. I’m old school and find at age 53 learning new methods isn’t ideal – I would love it if a computer program could access all my midi gear from one program and I’m sure there’s one out there, all of the tech sometimes gets in the way of just simply being creative … but I guess companies still have to reinvent the wheel every so often – cheers everyone 🙂 -
they all have no midi clock, so useless to mé. it makes me angry that such great multitrack recorders came out last year and each time with no midi clock, which means 1 recording and never adding or building up a song. as a Lead Author & Researcher having no say on cons (master midi clock) I totally think you’re a joke and doesn’t even know how songs are made.
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Some people play “real instruments” in addition to grooveboxes, synths with builtin sequencers and drumcomputers. To them it would be great if some of the multitrack recorders could send out MIDI clock.
This is basic functionality that should be expected from a modern multitrack recorder. Even in the 80s and 90s they synced digital MIDI devices with tape recorders. Having a device that does all that would be powerful and useful to many musicians, both professionals and amateurs.
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I recently started recording music again on my VS-2480 CD/DVD all in studio/recorder. I’m still so impressed with the unit. I updated the CD burner to DVD for large backups and I replaced the failing hard drive. I’m so impressed with this unit. I have it loaded with 4 effects cards. I have more effect options available per channel that I’ll ever use. It has so much functionality and I never have to worry about latency, plug-ins, etc.
Just because it’s been so many years, I thought there has to be something equivalent but newer. If I wanted to mix on a small screen, i could with the built in screen. but, I love the option to attach a big monitor. I also love the motorized faders. I can’t believe nobody is making an equivalent (24 Tracks with xlr/1/4″ inputs) unit with HDMI out.
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Publication of our September 2022 Edition resulted in the following recorders coming off the recommended list:
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I have been using a boss br1200Cd for several years and it has now broken. Is there anything on the market comparable to this machine with guitar/bass effects, amp modelling etc etc and also has an inbuilt rhythm section that can do basic beats fills etc.
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Try the zoom R24 it does all those things independantly and doubles as a computer audio interface. Also much better effects than the Tascams.
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Hi Brian,
Unfortunately, the only thing remotely similar to the Br1200CD is the Boss Micro BR BR-80 and its interface is not as extensive as the BR1200CD.
Majority of music producers have moved from all-in one products like the BR series to either a computer-based workflow with DAWs and MIDI Controllers or an analog workflow with separate drum machines and synthesizers.
Your best bet would to scour the used market for another BR1200CD but that would mean that if it inevitably breaks down again, you’ll have to look for another one, possibly at an astronomical price or bad condition.
Adapting to new music production methods is still the way to go. It will take a lot of work but it’s worth studying.
-Raphael
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Hi Andrew,
The DP-03SD is decent at best. Many users who gave it a high rating just wanted a simple recorder that does the job. However negative reviews note that the unit itself is unintuitive, the lack of an input db pad also turned off some users. The screen is also small and doesn’t show all the information you need. For the price, there are better options. For just a little more, The Zoom Livetrak L-8 is a good pick.
Personally, I’d save up even more and get the Tascam Model 12. It’s an amazing piece of kit that I had the pleasure of using a while back.
-Raphael
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Are there any recorders that have an HDMI output for a monitor? Those tiny displays are so tough to see. I know some of the old Roland VS-2400s had a VGA output. Thanks.
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Hi Eric,
To my knowledge, only the Tascam DR-701D Field recorder has an HDMI out that I’ve encountered. However, It is not a multitrack studio recorder. I’m afraid there aren’t any other options in the market today.
-Raphael
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On the DP-32SD & DP-24SD, do they record both main out on separate channel like the ZOOM L12? thank
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Hi Mario,
The DP-32SD and DP-24SD are both capable of rendering a stereo mixdown aside from individual multitracks. Tascam made an official video about this feature:
I hope it helps!
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We’ve removed the following recorder from the recommended list above due to having been discontinued, however you can still read our analysis of it: Sound Devices MixPre-10M.
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Thanks for the article. I would be interested to know about the drum programming that each one offers
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The Zoom R24 has up to 6 phantom-powered inputs. The R24 page is still out-of-date in this respect. Also, I found the R24 (and presumably R16) preamps inadequate for distant acoustic sources, e.g. group of unamplified singers or room mic for a solo piano, even with condensers. After adding a FocusRite Scarlett into the gain chain, everything worked much better though.
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Why in the world would these companies start eliminating midi when most of the old AND new music devises do?
A deal breaker for many. The world is creeping more and more towards the insane Common sense is out the door!-
It seems crazy to me that what used to be standard features are no longer incorporated on the latest models, e.g. MIDI, mixing automation/scene memory, punch in/out footswitch.
We should be getter more features, not less. -
The missing of Midi is a real hoax . Homerecording is the use of sequencers and Drummachines !
Maybe it will come back if the army of reissues of Vintage drumboxes and synths will enter the market … Catched a Tascam dp24 Vers. 1.0 for me !
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Just tried a Tascam 008. Kinda quiet, no FX, unimpressive reverb. MY biggest problem: it displays time m/s/fr when i need Measure/beat, for accurate editing. Some ads don’t specify. RRRRR!!!
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Why no mention of Roland? Don’t they compete in this market anymore. I have several that work pretty well.
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Roland does still compete in this market under their Boss brand including the Boss BR BR-80 and the Boss BR-800.
They used to compete with the larger Tascam models with now discontinued recorders like the Roland VS-2000CD.
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I have the Tascam DP-24 and it’s amazing after 20 years of Sonar on PC, these work flawlessly EVERY time I use it. Saves on crash.(Even saves last 10 undos after crash:)
Should mention the Roland. If anyone aver makes one with automation and automated faders(with memory after crash) that would be the perfect machine.
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I tried using digital multi track recorders.very frustrating to me and I wished 4 -8 track tape recorder make a comeback! Recording life was easier for me…
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I’m a Huge Tascam fan – got lots of their products and recorders throughout the years. Currently using the 32sd primarily – nice unit. There are going to be some limitations due to price point, and that’s ok. I still enjoy playing around with the old tape machines though.
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You can synchronize two Zoom R16’s via a simple USB cable for 32 tracks of playback and 16 tracks of simultaneous recording. The R16 can also run on batteries. No midi input or rhythm machine on the R16 was a deal breaker for me, at the time, and I ended up paying more for the older Zoom HD16 which had both.
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Does the tascam dp32 sd have the capabilities of panning the stereo tracks to different locations in the mix?
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It was a good machine about 14 years ago – still worth considering if you find one second hand for a good price, but it uses a built-in hard drive and CDRW drive rather than the SD cards that current ones use.
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Great information here, I am glad I popped in to check things out. Am in the process of getting a multi track recorder, and for me, and me needs, the Zoom r16 is the one I will get for sure, thx again!!
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I have a Zoom R24 and it’s a great bit of kit for the price. However I still feel I get better results from my Boss BR1600 which I prefer to use.
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And yet none of those recorders supports MIDI. You can’t sync multiple passes from a drum machine or sequencer, etc. Deal breaker for some of us. :'(
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No solution fills all the requirements, but – I opted, last year, to purchase a used Yamaha AW-1600, and because I have a dedicated Studio PC (not connected to the internet)for mixing and mastering, I’ve bypassed some of those issues common to the stand-alone DAW. In addition, it features full midi sync-ing. Again, not perfect, but ‘perfectly fine’ for my needs…
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I contacted a few of the manufactures to see if there were any undocumented features that might enable syncing – both Zoom and Tascam got back to me but external syncing isn’t possible with their current recorders.
Tascam did point out that the original DP-24 and DP-32 had the ability to MIDI sync with external devices, but that was removed in the 24SD and 32SD models.
If you want to sync you’ll either have to get one of those older Tascam models, or do what we did in the old days of tape machines where we’d record SMPTE time code on one of the tracks and sync via that – this is what my band used to do.
Here’s an article explaining syncing with audio recordings using SMPTE: Getting Recording Devices In Sync: The Basics Of Timecode And Synchronization
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I’m so furious about it, like people that buy it and think, now I can make songs and all of them come to the conclusion that they can not because they have no master midi clock to sync their gear. like the timing is not important according to zoom and Tascam to make songs, that shows how less they know about producing songs. music is all about timing. especially in these times with all instruments having a midi clock. and if you contact them about it then they don’t understand what a midi clock is, then the videos on youtube on how they try to make a song with it with no master clock, lol they are stuck with their own humm voice and flute and guitar. the cool thing about the dp32 and 24 is the mastering features, so the song is ready as soon it leaves the hardware. and Mr research puts them in them last place. completely noobish
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There is a work-around for MIDI sync on the Zoom R8 and Zoom R24 (not the Zoom R16) using a striped track for time code (the old fashioned way) on a ‘hidden’ output via one channel of the headphone socket. This is not the original article where I read about it, but it still covers the basic idea of how to do it.
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Hi Deano, which is the best device that is compatible with pro tools 12? Would have loved to have got the Zoom R16 but it doesn’t work with Pro Tools.
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Hi there I notice that the Boss BR-800 Multitrack Digital Recording Studio is not mentioned in your review. Please can you provide me with the pros and cons….I thought it was a great bit of kit?
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Hi Deano,
The Boss BR-800 was included in our research but it didn’t have high enough scores to be included in this guide when it was published.
It didn’t miss by much so there is a chance it might be included when we next update this guide – in the meantime you can see its Gearank score in our Music Gear Database here.
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Thanks Jason, it looks (as a layman) the easiest to use, I am a not sure what to buy as this is the 1st time Ive bought a recording device. Thanks for the link BTW.
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The Tascam knobs and faders are from a material that after two years of use starts to fall apart. Bought a DR24SD in 2013 en after 3 years of use the rubber starts to like melt or crack away.
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I do like the tascams alot, but i’ve had lots of issues with the buttons failing because little switches inside wear out fast.
really frustrating..
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Hi, nice article. The Zoom R16 is actually an 8in/2out usb audio interface (same as the R24),
Cheers-
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I’ve been using the Zoom R16 for awhile, now I need something better.
To record music on.
It’s Time for a better way to Record Artist and Bands.
I always thought to be a Recording session Engineer.
It’s a fun Job.
Bless you all.
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Just a quick correction as it was made me upgrade from the Zoom R16 to the R24 – the latter has SIX phantom powered channels, not four! It should also probably be noted that the bit rate is either 16 or 24 – mostly pertinent because at 24 you can’t use the built-in effects features.
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I want to note for buyers to be aware the Zoom recorders, either 16 or 24 track recorders do not have the ability to use a footswitch. Therefore for punching in and out is a deal breaker and I chose the Tascam 24 for this reason. Who wants to set auto points everytime to fix a spot? I use punch in tool for writing solos and experimenting so it’s an important tool for me.
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I had the same issue with my Zoom 24… if there was only ONE thing more I wish it had… it would be a foot-pedal punch in. This mark in/out thing gets old right off the bat. Otherwise it’s a great recorder!
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Thank you Rob – I have updated the Zoom R24 description to show that it has 6 inputs with phantom power.
According to the R24 manual, the limitation on effects is when using it as an Audio Interface – you can only use the effects in this mode with the sampling rate at 16-bit/44.1 kHz.
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Disclosure
Author & Contributors
Raphael Pulgar
I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings. I also play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.
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