Zoom Q8n-4K Handy Video Recorder

4K When You Need It

4K is a high-demand feature that many shooters will appreciate. However, the Q8n-4K does give you the option to record at lower-resolution formats when your priority is on small file sizes. Thanks to support for microSDXC cards up to 512GB, that should be far less of a concern now than it was with the Q8.

Wide-Angle Lens

The 150° lens yields plenty of space for wide-angle action like bands bouncing around a stage or the calming grandeur of breathtaking outdoor scenery. With five field of view (FOV) settings, the Q8n-4K can also provide tighter framing when you need it.

Eye-Catching Video

Brightness adjustment and lighting presets (a.k.a. Scenes) are just a button-push away, which increases the Q8n-4K's video versatility. Whereas the Q8 had three scene presets, the Q8n-4K offers five—Indoor, Outdoor, Nighttime, Concert, and Auto—to help you get the right lighting for your environment.

Video Output Port

If you want to check your video on a monitor, simply connect the recorder's micro-HDMI output to your preferred display (appropriate cables are available separately).

High-Quality Audio Recording

The Q8n-4K gives you the same high-quality audio formats as Zoom's dedicated audio recorders. You can record in WAV format up to 24-bit, 96 kHz resolution. In addition to the tactile controls for gain and signal padding, the menu system offers access to panning, volume, low-cut filtering, and dynamics processors such as a compressor, limiter, leveler, de-esser, and noise gate. Audio can be recorded along with video or separately, enabling the Q8n-4K to function as a standalone four-channel audio recorder.

X/Y Mic Capsule

The XYQ-8n capsule features two matched unidirectional condenser elements in a 120° X/Y configuration, delivering a true stereo image without requiring separate mics and cables. It's a great built-in solution, but it can be swapped for other Zoom mic capsules (available separately) such as the VRH-8 Ambisonic mic capsule made for immersive 360° audio.

Two XLR Inputs

If you wish to bring in external signals, the Q8n-4K is happy to help. Dual XLR mic/line inputs with phantom power and a switchable -20 dB pad allow the recorder to handle professional mics (dynamic or condenser) or even the main outputs from a mixing console.

Headphone Jack

Monitoring the audio is easy; just plug your headphones into the Q8n-4K's side-panel 3.5mm headphone jack and listen to make sure the sound is clean and free of distortion.

USB Microphone/Webcam

Not only does the Q8n-4K record to microSD cards, it can alternatively function as a USB device. So, whether you need a cool webcam or a capable audio interface, the Q8n-4K is there for you.

Powering Methods

Powering this recorder won't be a problem. Considering you can use the included rechargeable Li-ion battery, power it via USB, or run it from an optional AC adapter, the Q8n-4K is ideal for anything from back-to-back shoots to long-format concerts.

Mounting Options

The 1/4"-20 thread on the bottom of the body allows the recorder to be mounted on a tripod or gimbal if handheld shooting isn't your style.

Q8n-4K vs Q8

Improving on the Q8, the Q8n-4K model provides multiple upgrades in form and function.

• UHD 4K video resolution at 30 fps (2K on the Q8)
• f/2.8 / 150° wide-angle lens (f/2.0 / 160° on the Q8)
• Rear screen flips out for selfie-style recording
• Redesigned operability for ease of use
• Support for microSDXC cards up to 512GB (128GB maximum on the Q8)
• App-based remote control from an iOS/Android mobile device (separately available Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter required)