The + / - 60db recovery in the beginning was the most impressive thing I've ever seen lol
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Yes, impressive what they’ve achieved!
@markjob6354
4 жыл бұрын
Yeah, ditto. I wouldn't have thought this was possible, or it would be possible but sound like junk with a noticable noise floor.
@timbeaton5045
4 жыл бұрын
@@markjob6354 Me too! I think this way of recording is going to become a standard method among all audio recorder manufacturers. Wonder who will jump first!?
@timbeaton5045
4 жыл бұрын
What price Limiters, now? Almost pointless?
@MAMAvsGOD
4 жыл бұрын
FACTS. Can other Devices Achieve this?? Working in Studio this is Something I NEVER SEEN.
@geraldundone
4 жыл бұрын
Great video, Curtis! And thanks for the shout-out. 🤓🙏
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Gerald! Thanks for covering the audio interface aspects of the F6!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
*CORRECTION* F6 CAN record 32-bit Float at 192kHz. To do so, you must turn off the LR Mix and AutoMix and Limiters. *ALSO* recently found that many cameras record rather noisy audio when you feed audio from the F6's output to the camera's microphone input. I didn't have this issue with the BMPCC6K when I sent a line level signal but did have the issue with a Panasonic GH5 with a mic level signal. I have reported this issue to Zoom North America. AND, DaVinci Resolve now handles 32-bit float files.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Would be nice if it gave you a hint as to why 192kHz is grayed out when it is. Potential firmware update, Zoom? 😀
@FreeToUseSounds
4 жыл бұрын
@Zlatko Zlatev Hi Zlatko. If I am correct then you only change the fader (output) but not the gain if you have set it to 32 Bit.
@brianwyse5810
4 жыл бұрын
is it better than mix-pre?
@LangstoniusRex
4 жыл бұрын
@@jukarnariusIt does. I use the tone generator to set the levels on output when its plugged into cameras.
@JonRivero
4 жыл бұрын
@Zlatko Zlatev But only in 32 bits mode Isn`t?. I want this function on 24 bits mode with limiters. Zoom ¡It's annoying!
@fatheadvideollc
4 жыл бұрын
Curtis, first of all THANKS for your well done informational YT channel. I purchased the F6 for a short film I made a few weeks ago and it worked flawlessly in 32 bit for the barely audible young actor along with a scene with a lot of loud screaming, and crying. I purchased it based on your initial review of this great piece. THANK YOU and I am glad you have the reviews you do.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks and really glad to hear it’s working well. Those whisper to yelling situations can be rough, but much easier with this.
@spo5egy
4 жыл бұрын
You've just sold me on it twice!
@LearnLightAndSoundSessions
4 жыл бұрын
@@spo5egy 👍
@MyOtheHedgeFox
4 жыл бұрын
Curtis, your style is incredible - from the short and succinct intro with the text-based channel intro and summary (both a rarity these days!) to the professional and practical delivery. Even if most of these devices cost far too much for me to even consider, I still await your every new notification. Sound capture, warm confidence, classy no-frills editing - there’s everything to strive for!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Wow, thanks MyO! That means a lot.
@EzzenzDK
4 жыл бұрын
Exactly - detailed, sharp and straight to the point - no silly jokes etc. just love your style too!!
@videosuperhighway7655
4 жыл бұрын
I agree. I skip those unprofessional reviewers on youtube especially when they start out with waaaaats up guuuys. Etc..
@markjob6354
4 жыл бұрын
Hi Curtis: I just wanted to take this opportunity and thank you for your very thorough and direct reviews and how to videos you do here on your KZitem Channel. You are easy to listen to, easy to understand, and you have a great gifting to teach :) I learn so much from watching all your various reviews and analysis of audio and video products. These are the tools we are all using as film makers almost every day, and it's greatly appreciated. You are an important technical resource.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much, Mark. I really appreciate the feedback!
@markjob6354
4 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd No, thank You Curtis. You're a walking techno-encyclopedia of Digital video and audio production.
@markjob6354
4 жыл бұрын
@Curtis Judd - Have you done a review of the Atomos Sumo 19 ? I'm giving it some serious consideration for purchase.
@mattgray128
4 жыл бұрын
Definitely one of the best pieces of kit I’ve ever used. Not worrying about gain makes one-man-crew operations so much easier. Been using this for weeks and I love it.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
👍
@TheGreyfoo
3 жыл бұрын
I just receently bought one of these (in Australia), based on your review. I love it! 32-bit, clipless audio is such a profound, incredible leap forward, and I can't thank you enough for bringing it to my attention. As a solo videographer, I'm certainly never going back! ... Of note, I found that - beyond just letting me set the perfect 'gain' in post, I was also able to apply some really extreme EQ to the 32-bit WAVs inside Adobe Premiere (a 20dB swing from -10dB to +10dB) without the usual appearance of coloring/ugliness/smearing I'd otherwise expect in a highly-processed sound. (I don't actually know if any of Adobe Premiere's EQs are specifically linear phase but doubt it). Or so it appeared to me, anyway: ... On the F6 I recorded 32-bit/48kHz, and just two days previously the H6 (24-bit/48kHz) - in the same theatre/space, same mic (NTG3). The space isn't acoustically treated for bass, so (coupled with the NTG3s low-midness), I have to apply a very strong EQ cut to lows, and boost to highs. I applied the same (massive) EQ to both recordings, and the 32-bit just SINGS. ... On top of that, Zoom knocked it out of the park with the power options. I bought an Atomos 2-pack and charger, with over 8 hours of run time on a single L-battery, which can be swapped out in mere seconds. I'm not going to miss AA batteries at all. Stupidly happy. ... Thanks again Curtis.
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for you insights, Greyfoo!
@nobbystyles4807
4 жыл бұрын
my jaw nearly hit the floor on that audio recovery section. i was expecting some audible floor noise at least. i am absolutel buying one of these this week. i was going to get an h6 but heck..... this thing is a beast.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Good call - much better investment than the H6. :)
@makatron
4 жыл бұрын
Insane details, imagine in a decade when 48 bit recording is available so it can recover the file even after unplug the microphone 😅
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Hahaha!
@videosuperhighway7655
4 жыл бұрын
64bit it records the future. Lol
@CyrilleBoucanogh
2 жыл бұрын
Don't stop on 48, better 128 bits when you just stay at home watching your favourite movies while ZOOM shoots and edits and does all the video production for you 😅
@peterwiessenthaner5107
2 жыл бұрын
I wait also of this possibility with 48 bit recording 😅
@makatron
2 жыл бұрын
@@peterwiessenthaner5107 it'll just tap on your thoughts and provide a normalized track
@treffensaintjohnllc2913
4 жыл бұрын
This device is excellent for recording conferences that have questions coming from the audience and there is not a "roaming" mic nearby. In post you can correct the volume without raising the noise floor. It will save TONS of time in post-production! Conversely if you clip the audio this device will save you big time! WOW! Just WOW!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
👍
@riparianstudios
4 жыл бұрын
So what you're telling me is that this recorder could perfectly capture the sound of my head exploding while watching this demo, even with its sudden and percussive loudness.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Most likely, yes. 😀
@TonyBabarino
4 жыл бұрын
Bahahahahaha!!!
@kalpeshgandhi5176
4 жыл бұрын
Curtis Ju
@philipbloom
3 жыл бұрын
great review Curtis. I just got mine and am wading though it. Love the 32 bit float!
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
Congrats on the new recorder, Philip! Contact me with any questions any time!
@LangstoniusRex
4 жыл бұрын
Why am i watching this when i already have the zoom f6? (love it. just used it for a week on a web series)
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Hahaha! Glad to hear it’s working well for you!
@HeliumContent
4 жыл бұрын
You're trying to prevent buyer's remorse ;) Happens to all of us, man!
@LangstoniusRex
4 жыл бұрын
@@HeliumContent loooool. Maybe so. I will say, all this time later, the 32 bit float saved my arse when I stupidly tried to shoot three cameras at the same time _while_ running the sound. Screwed up the levels on some takes, didnt catch it on set. Was able to recover the tracks because i could raise the levels. moral of the story: find a crew! Oh and that 32 bit float feature is amazing :)
@HeliumContent
4 жыл бұрын
@@LangstoniusRex It's a game-changer - Sound Devices has also incorporated this into their Gen.II Mix-Pre models. It's a great time to be a filmmaker!
@emilybeth8224
3 жыл бұрын
My mind is blown within the first 2:30 minutes! The post-gain-editing has me stunned. Absolutely great review
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Emily. Happy recording!
@iancraig
4 жыл бұрын
What a great recording device. Love that dynamic range that it offers and you were able to rescuse the overblown and ‘underblown’ recordings!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
👍 pretty neat!
@VitinhoXXL
4 жыл бұрын
That "good bye" message sold me out :)
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
There’s nothing quite like a friendly piece of gear. 🤓
@roryonabike5863
4 жыл бұрын
Some people may be interested in knowing that B&H is selling the Zoom F6 and the original MixPre-6, which it has units of despite the introduction of version II, for the same price, US$650. That is $200 less than the price for a MixPre-6ii.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you Rory.
@JensLarsen
Жыл бұрын
Great overview. Your channel and these detailed reviews really makes it easier to figure out what might work and what might not work. Thank you!!
@curtisjudd
Жыл бұрын
👍
@newsbatavian
4 жыл бұрын
I like that you take into consideration the needs of the solo shooter.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
👍
@remektekmedia6641
4 жыл бұрын
Good review up to your usual high standard.I upgraded from a Zoom F8 to the F6 and loved it. However after a week I decided to swap to the MixPre-6 Mk ii. You've made an accurate comparison between the two, so I won't repeat them, but... However, I want to note that the 3.5mm Aux mic input on the MP range is really excellent, especially with the smaller units, when the user might be vlogging in the field, as you can plug in a 3.5mm mic that needs plug-in power, without resolving to a bulky XLR adaptor, like the Rode VXLR+. This is especially handy, for "quick and dirty" stereo location sound such as I might use on a holiday, when I can plug in a Rode Stereo Video MicPro. Point in favour of the F6, compared to the MixPre-3 or 6 Mk ii, is that its iOS App can produce a Sound Report. This is only available on the much more expensive MixPre-10 Mk ii. For me personally, the draw cards for the MixPre-6 Mk ii, were gain controls in 32 bit mode, 3.5mm stereo input, 1/4" line inputs and the user interface, however I also liked the F6, so much that I might buy it again if I needed the extra inputs, or get a new F8something, when 32 bit comes to the F8 range.
@roryonabike5863
4 жыл бұрын
Re your comment about sound reports, maybe check out Sound Devices’s free app WaveAgent if you aren’t already familiar with it. If you use Mac OS Catalina, note that Sound Devices is working on an update.
@remektekmedia6641
4 жыл бұрын
@@roryonabike5863 Thanks for that Rory. (what's you bike, BTW? - I am also a motorbiker). WaveAgent currently doesn't support 32 bit audio files(!!! DUH) and requires running on a Mac, so it is really a pain in the you know what for field use. In contrast the Zoom iOS App can create this in the field. Too bad about Android users, though. As SD provide Sound Report facility for the MixPre-10 using the WingMan App, I really think they should have that feature for the MixPre-3 and 6, after all it would not cost them anything and the SD products are hardly cheap so intentionally limiting this function seems to me contra productive.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
I think you capture my sentiment, too: it’s a tough choice. Both really are quite impressive.
@roryonabike5863
4 жыл бұрын
RemekTek Media Hi. Moto Guzzi V7 II. WaveAgent also runs in Windows, but as you say it doesn’t work in iOS. I agree about the WingMan app.
@BasicFilmmaker
4 жыл бұрын
Ha! You got an NTG3! Sweet! Do you have or are you doing an F6 course? Maybe you mention it later. Not all the way through the video yet. So far it’s awesome!! 👍
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
NTG3, finally added to the kit. Can finally cross that off the list. :) Yes, definitely planning a Zoom F6 course!
@ricardorgomez
4 жыл бұрын
THANK YOU for doing this video! Though when you initially spoke to these folks about the recorder, we all knew it was a matter of time when you'd review it. The look on your face when the words 'no gain' was used was priceless! I was surprised how small the unit really is and it seems like they made it that way for mobility. With the least amount of compromises. Being able to power it with a fairly normal battery bank and mountable under a camera on a tripod is impressive especially considering its performance. I think in the last 7 or so years, I've bought into a couple of online courses. I can figure it out and practice on my own. But I'll definitely be purchasing one of yours when the time comes. Your practical yet thorough approach to gear is first rate!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much Ricardo! Happy recording!
@PDU_Tutorials
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks CJ! That’s a great feature! Thanks for the MixPre comparison.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
👍
@SSingh-nr8qz
4 жыл бұрын
DAMN YOU! I was so proud of my H5...Then I saw this video LOL.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Hahaha! The H5 still holds its own. Happy recording!
@madeiraislander
4 жыл бұрын
and me the H4n Pro :C bad pre-gains though!! had to buy a fethead to fix that.
@savanaviolenta
4 жыл бұрын
You know that there is f8 right?
@PhotoMakers
4 жыл бұрын
Hi, Great review! thank you so much!!!! I couldn't see if the F6 show the actual gain for each volume knob. Imagine that you have 2 mics for stereo recording and you need perfectly "aligned" gains for both tracks. Does it offer this control or only on the visuals?
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Yes, you can link 2 or more channels together so that you can set their faders or trim with one control, thus ensuring they are at the exact same level.
@PhotoMakers
4 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd perfect!! Thank you so much for the clarification!!!!
@zedamex
4 жыл бұрын
Curtis, I may just be another random commenting from the net but I must thank you for basically being relentless and carrying on reviewing audio gear like this. I last commented talking about the F8 when that first came out as I purchased it. It's great to see you still going strong. Ever since then I've always wanted something with a much better headphone amp for listening to your recordings with a less tinny sound, and mic amp with the warmer base sound of the sound devices but with the live podcast-able features and not at $5000 price point. The new F6 (less clipping when doing offline recording) and Mix Pre II has me excited about audio interfaces again. Now I just need to save some money - as for me this is a hobby so the top teir stuff just can not be justified.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks zedamex - really appreciate the feedback. The MixPre line also just added MixAssist which automatically mixes multi-host podcasts more effectively than the AutoMix on the Zoom F series. It's a great time for podcasters!
@ngocehgayabebas2118
4 жыл бұрын
Amazing. You answered every single comment. Well done Curtis, you have my respect
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you Ngoceh.
@roryonabike5863
4 жыл бұрын
What happens if one tries to use a wireless lav mike with the F6 set for 32 bit/dual converters?
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
The wireless system or lavalier mic are almost certainly going to be the dynamic range limiting factors.
@LordCaes
3 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd I am considering the F6 to record a panel discussion, 2 boomed NTG 5s as backup to 4 individual lavs. Are there wireless Lavs that will be able to take advantage of the 32bit, or would the Zoom F2 or Tentacle Sync Track E be a better option? Thank you in advance :-)
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
@@LordCaes Zaxcom makes wireless systems with a feature they call Neverclip. It does not use a 32-bit float wav file, but a proprietary format called MARF. It achieves the same thing but really works best with Zaxcom mixer/recorders and are very expensive - in a totally different league to the F6. Assuming you're not looking to spend that much money, I would say the F2 or Track E would be good options.
@LordCaes
3 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd Thanks very much!
@hitars
4 жыл бұрын
No.2 item I bought it after your video. $550USD in Australia, what a great price. thank you Curtis.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
👍
@FabioPansera
11 ай бұрын
Hi Curtis, thank you for your precious work on the platform. I have a brand new Sennheiser 416, which I'd couple with the G3 Lav Sennheiser. I'm just starting out in the audio world, and I'm not an expert by any means. I frequently hear the argument “For the price of the Zoom F6, at that point might as well wait a bit longer and get a Sound Devices MixPre 3 II”. Now, money is tight, but I would spend the extra if you tell me the difference in the noise level is noticeable with an MKH 416 once you start to crank it up. I would mostly record in 32-bit float. I can't help but mention that I have a person who wants to sell me a Zoom F6 used once, plus a Zoom bag, plus 2 NPF batteries (8500mah) for roughly the equivalent of 500 USD. The Sound Devices MixPre 3 II would cost me the equivalent of 1120 USD. I really don't know what to do. The number of accessories and the low price pull me towards the used Zoom F6... but will I give up a lot in terms of noise? The difference in functions is not really on the table here, since with my workflow, I would use both in the same way, so the differences highlighted wouldn't probably be a Pro or a Con in my specific case. Again, thank you! Looking forward to reading what you think about this!
@curtisjudd
10 ай бұрын
In terms of self noise, no, I haven't found the MixPre to a be much different - they're both very clean. There are other reasons I prefer the MixPre, mostly ergonomic, but you can make great sound with the F6. The most important thing will be to learn it inside and out. You'll make great sound. If you need any help learning the F6, we have a course over at school.learnlightandsound.com.
@FabioPansera
10 ай бұрын
@@curtisjudd thank you, I’ll check out your course
@roryonabike5863
4 жыл бұрын
Curtis Judd surely knows this, but others may not. Sound Devices puts its headphone volume control on the side because that knob is also used to set menu values, including gain. It’s the same on my Sound Devices 702T, a recorder that sold for four times the price of a MixPre-3. The whole point is that, unlike with the faders, one can’t accidentally change isolated track values (a good reason to NOT override the factory default on a MixPre recorder and use the faders to control isolated track gain). The assumption is that one is either using no bag, a bag large enough that there is enough clearance to get your hand in (are you also using right angle XLR connectors, because, if you aren’t, clearance shouldn’t be an issue), or a bag that has side access for one’s hand. For purpose-built sound bags, side access is the norm. In any event, I don’t know why someone would be messing around with headphone volume in the middle of recording in the first place :)
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Rory . Do you have any recommendations on bags with side access for the MixPre-10?
@roryonabike5863
4 жыл бұрын
Curtis Judd Hi Curtis. I purchased a bag, made by Gunther Kortwich, for a Sound Devices 702T that I also use for a MixPre-3. Mr. Kortwich died in 2015. His company, filmtontechnik, is active but apparently has stopped making sound recording bags. When I made my purchase, Gotham Sound, where I purchased the bag, was one of the few Kortwich dealers in the U.S. I tried out bags made by Petrol (now produced by Sachtler), K-TEK and Orca as well as Kortwich. It took less than a minute to choose the Kortwich. If you can find one second-hand that fits, go for it. However, most of the time I use both the 702T and the MixPre-3 without a bag. I still use the 702T over the MixPre if its weight and bulk aren’t an issue, or if I’m going to a place where I want a recorder that is built like a tank. It’s still a brilliant recorder.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
@@roryonabike5863 Thanks Rory. Unfortunate that filmtontechnik stopped making the sound bags. I used the 744T for a project several years back. Built like a tank, indeed!
@JavierMercedes
4 жыл бұрын
That 32 bit float example is blowing my mind.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
It is pretty cool for directly connected mics with a lot of dynamic range. Just remember that it doesn't apply to wireless mic systems - they'll usually clip before the audio gets to the recorder.
@penmelyn
3 жыл бұрын
Davinci now supports 32bit float. Great channel by the way, full of concise info and considered opinion and no flummery!
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Llywelyn.
@johnbixby8305
4 жыл бұрын
Instantly subscribed. Curtis this is the most efficient and polished review I have ever seen on a piece of audio equipment... Flawless victory.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks John, really appreciate the feedback!
@FrankETaylor
4 жыл бұрын
I ended up buying a F6 that was a floor model for $580. I really wanted the mix pre-6 but I don't do enough sounds jobs to justify the extra $$ for it for two less inputs (even though I really prefer the combo inputs over standard XLRs). I've only recorded a handful of things with it so far but I really do love it. I don't worry as much about watching the levels and instead focus on the subjects being filmed. Thank you for helping make the decision!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
👍 glad to hear it’s working out!
@FrankETaylor
4 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd Quick update, I've only had one issue so far, and that happened when I inserted an older SD card that has become frozen (you can access the files on it, but can't write anything new). The F6 said error but then armed and said it was recording. Long story short it didn't record anything, and there was nothing to recover. Had I tried to format the card I would have figured it out, but it was a bit of a rush and I've used other cards in it without formatting and had no issues. But you live and you learn (and always record a test sample on the card before using it that day). Luckily I had a scratch track running to a camera so all isn't lost, but it's not 32bit so less wiggle room in post.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
@@FrankETaylor Thanks for sharing. Definitely a good idea to format and test the card first. In fact, in the System->SD Card menu, there's a testing function to confirm the card will work well with the F6.
@FrankETaylor
4 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd Yeah it's funny because I ran that after the fact just to see what it would say and it said the card was fine. But yeah, if I had tried to format it first I would have had a less stressful weekend. I talked to them on the phone and they might fix that in a firmware update, but they had never encountered anything like that so who knows.
@waldemarschneider5469
4 жыл бұрын
There is one more advantage to have 32bit which I personally love. You do not have to get your talent talk to set the meters! Skipping this step makes the work (especially when you are a one man band) so much smoother and more comfortable for the talent. I am thinking of buying it only because of this, and the handy battery jack on the back ;)
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Good point, though you’ll still want to set the level so you can hear to monitor the shoot.
@giuseppepisano7398
3 жыл бұрын
I think you really hit the spot when you said that in an ideal world there would be a Zoom f8n with the 32bit dual recording technology. I think I'd definitely buy an f6 if it was slightly bigger and offer an hirose power input and a proper headphone amp, as well as a real stereo out.
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
👍
@qwiklok
2 жыл бұрын
A technical tour de force. , thank you. After listening to the equally briiliant video on the Mixpre 6, the form factor, analog limiters, lighted dials and screen won out. the unit fits winderfully under a Sony A73, winner. These videos are game changers. Again thank you..
@curtisjudd
2 жыл бұрын
🙏
@mrheng562
4 жыл бұрын
Take my Perkins money!!! I can see this being very useful for my students when they’re working their group projects. I’m not a sound guy, but the 32-bit float will save so much time in post. That’s insane flexible!!! As always, great content! Thank you!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Heng, and great to hear from you!
@SatanicJamnic
4 жыл бұрын
LOL! I literally one minute ago was watching Frank Howard's video and was thinking "I am curious when Curtis will drop his video for this week". And here it is!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
👍 thanks for the rad thumbnail!
@pianopotato
Жыл бұрын
Hi Curtis, I recently did some live streams with my Zoom F6 with the Sony A7IV. Using the tone generator and then dropping the line out level from the Zoom F6 to -21.5dB to hit the right level on my camera, I was getting (at least to my ears), excellent sound that was free of any issues. I thought this might be relevant for Sony shooters using the F6. I tested also with the Sony ZVE10 which has very similar preamps to the A7IV and again, same excellent result. Both cameras here only have microphone level inputs.
@curtisjudd
Жыл бұрын
👍
@TheProVideo
3 жыл бұрын
after watching this video i bought F6 Thank you
@TheProVideo
3 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd Thank your videos are amazing love it
@curtisjudd
2 жыл бұрын
Happy recording!
@AriRannveigarson
4 жыл бұрын
Excellent video, really helped me with my decision making. The new firmware that came for mixpre this week included AutoMix and Sound Reports. the F series are great and you get a lot for your money, used to own F8. (only major downside was the headphone amp) thanks for your time and effort put in this review
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks!
@Mormu624
4 жыл бұрын
2:07 I am conditioned to laugh due to the over abundance off insanely bass boosted memes. Awesome review, I've been binge watching so many of your field recording related videos and I am still undecided between this or the Mix Pre 3, especially given the fact that I can get an Orca bag plus SD card bundle on the Zoom, still less than what the Mix pre 3 ii by itself costs. Very difficult. Thanks for the great insights!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
😅 It sounds like you may have some solid reasoning on a direction.
@johnmartinez4501
4 жыл бұрын
Wow, I was really looking forward to this review, and you did not disappoint! Long list of questions, sorry: 1) Since the F6 has dual ADC's combined with the 32-bit recording, vs. the MixPre II with only 32-bit, what is the performance difference there? How do the dual ADC's contribute to the overall dynamic range? 2) Additionally, in your test of the "recoverability" of the audio clips, how does the F6 perform in raising the levels in post if the sound source itself was very quiet? I assume you were speaking at the same moderate volume in all the samples. Based on my understanding of 32-bit recording (which is admittedly limited), the recorder basically redivides the relative difference in amplitude for a sound wave at the given fader setting, which is what allows you to bring up the volume in post without introducing much extra noise. But what if you already had the fader set at +60 dB, and still had to bring it up a lot in post? I'm probably really misunderstanding 32-bit, but I was just wondering if you could clarify that a bit. 3) Is there a practical reason why the ability to set the gain on the MixPre II would be preferable to the unity gain on the F6, assuming you were using 32-bit recording since doing so would presumably result in no difference in ability to record clean audio? Obviously, being able to set the gain in 24-bit would be a big advantage. 4) Given the inability to set the gain on the F6, how does it perform in 24-bit mode in terms of raising the noise floor at high fader levels? Or having inadvertently set the faders too low, how much does raising it in post raise the noise floor? Again, thank you so much for this review! You've got a lot of amazing content!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Hi John: 1) The MixPre II also has multiple ADCs. They don't say exactly how many, but their patent cites 3 ADCs and the process for how they re-combine the output of each to record to 32-bit float. The difference seems to be that on the MixPre, they allowed you the freedom to set the gain, which I suspect has to do with the presumed 3 ADCs. 2) That will depends largely on the microphone, is my guess. Will require more tests. 3) Yes, microphones are generally designed/voiced with the assumption that some amount of gain will be applied post mic preamp. You might not get the optimal performance of some microphones on the F6 given this. I didn't find any obvious examples in my testing so far, so this is only theoretical. 4) In 24-bit and 16 bit modes, you can adjust the gain/trim so in those cases, it performs just like a Zoom F8n, which is to say, very well in terms of noise performance.
@YourStoryStudios
4 жыл бұрын
We've got the MixPre 3 II connected to an EVA1 for video work, but need a permanent solution in our new podcast studio. The F6 looks good, having more inputs at a cost effective price! Thanks for doing the comparison. Very helpful!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks. I'll be curious to hear how you like the F6 relative to the MixPre.
@dblbassted
Жыл бұрын
You've become my go-to for all things audio for video. Thank you!
@curtisjudd
Жыл бұрын
👍
@JeffreyHackReacts
3 жыл бұрын
Great review Curtis! I just purchased this item from a sound production friend and am learning how the device works. I've use the Mix-Pre6 and Zoom H4N before. So I'm learning my way around the ballpark.
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
Happy recording!
@peterwiessenthaner5107
2 жыл бұрын
Hallo Curtis Judd thank you for this good informations. I work with these audio recorder 2 years and i like it. Since the zoom f6 is very small, it is not easy to adjust the settings. Otherwise, I am very satisfied with the recorder.
@curtisjudd
2 жыл бұрын
Glad it works well for you 👍🎙
@EnforcerMan
4 жыл бұрын
Awesome review man. This device is certainly an overkill for me but my wife just surprised me with the Zoom F6 and NTG5 mic for my birthday ... little over the top for my start up KZitem channel ...lol I am learning a lot from you about audio. Thank you
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Great combo! Audio gear: check!
@satsahota1765
4 жыл бұрын
Love your reviews Mr Judd. I’ve just ordered a mix pre 3 ii and your content helped so much researching which was best for my use. Thank you
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Sat and I hope the MixPre works well for you!
@PhillipArthurSimmons
4 жыл бұрын
Are you kidding me? That audio recovery is almost magic!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
👍
@daledervin3672
4 жыл бұрын
I just today had a completely BS situation of my F6 locking up at the beginning of an extremely important shoot for my company. After jamming with my Tentaclesync, the two inputs I was using (1 and 6) completely locked up- no audio whatsoever. No amount of powering down and back up helped, everything was set and tested last night so there were no prior issues. I finally had to do a factory reset, and it worked immediately. I had to jam again, but no problems afterwards. However, I was so shook up with people and clients waiting wondering what was going on, and maybe having to call the entire shoot because of the F6, I forgot that the thing comes up in 24 bit / poly mode, and didn't set it back to 32 bit /stereo-mode. So all the audio is in this poly BS mode from multiple mics. I am so pissed off at myself and the F6, I'm sick. I'm d**n lucky I had my levels set right. Yes, Operator Error, but AFTER the F6 locked up- THAT is on Zoom. I emailed them with the facts and demanded the firmware be reworked so it comes up in 32 bit float- stereo/mono mode- what people are buying it for, as default, so if someone else has to panic like I did with the F6 today, when they do a hail Mary factory reset, it will come up with the highest feature-set it has.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing Dale. Sorry to hear of the issues and hope Zoom can address the input Issue.
@perspectivestudioscaribbea5899
4 жыл бұрын
Excellent comprehensive review Curtis, after viewing I feel as though if an F6 was in front of me I would know my way around it without any difficulty. Keep up the great work !
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks!
@AskJoe
4 жыл бұрын
That gain feature is simply mind blowing and it opens up a ton of possibilities. It looks like you could practically start recording blindfolded, and not even look at the gain, but I'm guessing there's at least some loss in quality vs optimizing the gain first.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
The bottleneck becomes your microphone and especially wireless mics.
@swetrich
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this! So damn helpful. I super appreciate all the time and effort you put into videos like this. Aside from some of the headphone monitoring differences, this fits my needs so much better than any other device as I do a lot of solo or run and gun type work with occasional short films and web series where I'm doing everything. Also for corporate or wedding events when I need to plug in and leave it, this just makes sense.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks swetrich!
@user-jw4fn6fh2x
4 жыл бұрын
Wow, I'm impressed with that wide dynamic range adjustment capability. I would buy it just for that. Wish I had this unit years ago.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Pretty cool - a substantial step forward for audio recording.
@matthewlee2957
4 жыл бұрын
Curtis, thanks for taking the time and sharing your thoughts. . . . . So appreciate it
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Matthew!
@bolttracks
Жыл бұрын
The outputs are really nothing to rave about, especially since the headphone amp is pretty noisy, but man do the recordings sound great and the built-in Ambisonics encoding is amazing given the price point. The BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter and app are a must have for anyone who records a lot because being able to quickly name and rename tape and move between folders is just so much easier.
@curtisjudd
Жыл бұрын
👍
@robertsaca3512
5 ай бұрын
6:40 you can convert musical trs cables etc. to XLR and directly into the recorder, I know because I do this often, especially guitars.
@curtisjudd
5 ай бұрын
👍
@KrunoslavStifter
4 жыл бұрын
That's crazy... useful. That wide dynmic range capability is worth it alone.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Pretty amazing!
@farwestgarohills3831
2 жыл бұрын
Everything is fine for me. Only thing, I am not able to use my Pro Recording Headphone on Zoom F6. That's an dis advantage. But I am not worried about headphone. Without a headphone also I recorded; no problem. In all Zoom recorder, just see the light meters are at optimum level; and you can leave it alone and continue recording without headphone. When you play, you will hear the sounds are perfect. This is one goodness of Zoom recorders.
@curtisjudd
2 жыл бұрын
I still recommend using headphones so that you know if there are other problems like lavalier microphones picking up clothing rustle or too many plosives.
@jwoolson
4 жыл бұрын
@Curtis Judd: Thank you for all your excellent work. Your gear reviews are all fantastic - clear, in-depth, and incredibly helpful.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Jonathan!
@Pierluigi66
2 жыл бұрын
having rather enjoyed your review I just treated myself to the F6... now the excruciating wait for delivery... thank you for your reviews BTW, a class of their own.
@curtisjudd
2 жыл бұрын
Congratulations and happy recording!
@tomdchi12
4 жыл бұрын
Nice to have two solid options to chose between! In both cases, the high dynamic range recording (dual A/D converter ant 32 bit float format) creates a massive test of the quality of the preamp, and both are producing amazing results at either extreme. I've been holding off on replacing my H4N, but I'm leaning towards the MixPre 3 II, though I'll have to chew on this a bit more. Some of the features of the F6 are hard to pass up...
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Agreed. Zoom and SD aren’t making this a simple decision.
@ramonbs6075
4 жыл бұрын
awesome and very instructional video!!! I think this is the best KZitem channel of sound related content. Keep going!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Ramón!
@sorryaboutnico
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for mentioning the auto-mix feature. Definitely something for me to look into.
@curtisjudd
2 жыл бұрын
👍
@maxheadrom3088
3 жыл бұрын
This is the channel I click like before watching. Excellent!
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Max.
@chungdha
3 жыл бұрын
I like MixPre lighting each knob to show which one is clipping without needing to check the screen and which number of channel. But seen setup of MixPre 6 up close the biggest issue was powering it. The L Mount adapter was too odd use in sound bag and we had issue that the metal tabs not connect well and slight movement would disconnect, we had to use large powerbank at the end to power it with being afraid with the flimsy small usb type c could break over time. Zoom F6 with L-mount for me would be a better solution as have many f970 batteries on set to power it for a long time.
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
Sounds like you got a defective battery sled on the MixPre. They should replace it for you. Did you contact SD support?
@chungdha
3 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd we just gave it back to the shop
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
@@chungdha Good luck with the F6, then. I hope it works well for you.
@AwesomeShotStudios
4 жыл бұрын
Another top-quality review, Curtis. Kudos...and thanks for putting this together. As a one-man-band, I love the idea of 32bit float, it's nearly magical in forgiveness. My workaround has always been to record audio to two channels, with one being set down -6dB as a safety. For 99% of my talking head work, it's been a good workaround. The gear-hound in me really wants to get this, but I can't yet justify it. Thanks again for giving us your opinion and comparisons.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the feedback!
@jetlag1488
Жыл бұрын
Having owned the F6 for a couple of days now (still haven't been able to take it outside for some field recording because of the weather, but I've been using it around the house), I can definitely vouch for it. It's really high quality and powerful for the price. At almost twice the price of the F6, I can't see how the MixPre-3 II would be a good purchase. Maybe brand loyalty and if you don't have a budget. Comparing them, or even talking about the MixPre-3 II, makes no sense to me at all. My only complaint about the F6 is the small size of the knobs. Or rather, how cramped the controls are. But it's a very minor complaint. My hands are about 19x19cm and I can operate the knobs comfortably, but with and without the bag (K-Tek), but a little bit more room between the knobs would've been nice. I reckon that this very small complaint of mine will go away rather quickly as I use the F6 more, since the only times I'd use the knobs would be right before and right after recording. There's no need to ride the knobs while recording with 32-bit float after all.
@curtisjudd
Жыл бұрын
Glad you're enjoying your F6. I still prefer the MixPre. The headphone amp is quite a bit better, I prefer the ergonomics of the menu system, and the preamps sound a bit warmer.
@Dracomies
4 жыл бұрын
This is insane. This is a whole world of insane. If I'm hearing this correctly there is no longer any need to do any gainstaging or to bother with compression or to buy another preamp. This one unit does it all. This is almost equivalent to getting raw for photos or using Illustrator with vector images. Basically no matter how large or small you make it, it's perfect audio quality. Gone are the days of preamp noise and hiss. Gone are the days of clipping audio.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
In most cases, yes. Note that if you use wireless microphones, the wireless system and lavalier mic will be the dynamic range bottleneck. The dynamic range demo was with a high quality shotgun microphone connected via XLR cable. But, yes, in this scenario, this is a huge change! And a welcome one!
@Dracomies
4 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd This is awesome! I bought this a few hours ago. It's coming in the mail tomorrow. I feel like this is godsend for voiceover people.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
@@Dracomies Excellent - congratulations and I hope it works well for you!
@paultryba7228
4 жыл бұрын
Another wonderful video from you. Love your channel and wish the whole youtube world was as well done.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Paul!
@MyJeanf
4 жыл бұрын
Excellent video Curtis . The zoom f6 was on my list but ended being a little bit out of my budget. However, in the end I purchased the Zoom F4 as it was on a special deal. I Also purchased you F4 course which helped me get up and running with way better audio this previously recorded with my tascam recorder. . Enjoyed the video. JF
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Glad the F4 is working out for you! Happy recording!
@EVOlutionHTC4g
Жыл бұрын
I know this is an older video, but I still find a lot of value on watching them. My question to Curtis is, it's now March 2023. Given the price difference between the Zoom F6 and the Sound Device Mix-Pre 3 II is $150, what do you consider to be the better option and why?
@curtisjudd
Жыл бұрын
It comes down to how many inputs you need and your preferences. I’m my case, I’d choose the MixPre-3 II which is what I use to record most of my KZitem videos. Ergonomically it works better for me and I prefer the sound of the MixPre preamps. I also like that I can just pull the USB thumb drive out of the side to get the files without having to remove a battery to get to the SD card. I also find the MixPre menus much more intuitive and quicker to navigate.
@busyak
3 жыл бұрын
This is amazing but argh I REALLY wish they would release an F8 updated with 32-bit float support! I really love the F8 in every way, and never clipping would make it truly the perfect recorder.
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
I agree!
@spo5egy
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you Curtis, I think you've sold me on the f6 for my needs.. @ 24:40 I see a Lego tyre 🤣 I remember when my son was growing up and standing on those evil little blocks in the middle of the night... ouch. For the size, The f6 is perfect to fit into my rig (and looks great) but with that float option... It's pretty fool proof by the looks of things and sometimes I feel rushed setting my white balance, iso, zebras etc. so one thing less to worry about is a great thing.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Haha! Oh man, it is no fun to step on legos!
@FlashOnTwos
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the review. Now when you have time, I think we'd all appreciate a full tutorial on every single function that this thing has!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
I will be working on a course as soon as I can reserve enough time off of work. 😀
@FlashOnTwos
4 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd Awesome. Take a vacation or something! lol. Thanks!
@AlBergstein
4 жыл бұрын
Once again great job Curtis. The new zoom product seems like another leap forward for them. Great to see
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Al!
@jsebastianst
4 жыл бұрын
This pretty much answered all my questions about the F6, thanks for the great video!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
You’re welcome! 👍
@nike12000haha
3 жыл бұрын
Wow that 32bit float was wild!
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
👍
@FilmMakerKlausKusserow
2 жыл бұрын
I enjoy my F6 too. Maybe more than you, because mine gets no competition from a Mix Pre 😁.
@curtisjudd
2 жыл бұрын
Happy recording with your F6!
@Ranger7Studios
4 жыл бұрын
You had me at the 32 bit float. This will be my next audio purchase. :)
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
👍
@LaRobertos
4 жыл бұрын
just about to start using it on our channel this week for in studio recording and work our way out to the field after we get to know and learn it
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Congrats! I hope it works well for you!
@LaRobertos
4 жыл бұрын
Curtis Judd your my audio hero
@NesHacker
3 жыл бұрын
I really appreciate your videos! Wonderful quality and very easy to understand :)
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks NesHacker.
@oriole8789
4 жыл бұрын
Conclusion: The recorder that says "Goodbye!" to you, wins haha. Keep this in mind, manufacturers. Also "unity gain" is a bit misleading for tech people, since that term typically means zero gain for an operational amplifier chip (opamp). The way you had your diagram, it would imply that the preamp wasn't amplifying anything but rather "buffering" the low level microphone signal. The better term would be "fixed gain", since there is gain, it's just not adjustable. Great review, thank you!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks. Interestingly, unity gain is the term Zoom uses in describing this so I'm not sure exactly what they mean. Perhaps fixed gain would be a better choice. Also, I don't know if you saw to the end of the video, but even the friendly "goodbye" message didn't make the F6 my favorite choice in this range of recorders. :-)
@oriole8789
4 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd If Zoom chose to use it, then it was probably something that was lost in translation. Unity implies "1", hence unity gain is equivalent to no gain because you're multiplying the signal by 1x ("gain of 1"). That's how it is in the electronics world at least. Regarding favorites, you've correctly pointed out that different people will have their own preferences based on their workflows. I do corporate video very much "on the side" as part of a larger service package, but I end up creating a lot of my own custom products when market solutions are too expensive or underperform. One of your older reviews caused me to create my own portable preamp when I realized that Sound Devices was the only company with high-enough tech specs for some of my applications - but I thought I could get to that level with a custom device without having to spend that kind of money, so I did. The "value proposition" of the F6 and MixPre II is much better. Personally, I don't like to overspend on equipment - I prefer reinvesting into other business aspects. Your reviews are as good and as comprehensive as they could humanly be. Thank you for making them! -Nick
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
@@oriole8789 Thanks Nick! Would love to hear about your custom preamp some time.
@PeterPiklMusic
3 жыл бұрын
Thats really a fantastic review/comparison. Literally all I could wish for to make a decision. Thank you very much! 🙏
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
You're most welcome, Peter. Best wishes!
@wezlam
4 жыл бұрын
Amazing as always. Loving the new intro too.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Wesley!
@RonaldSuper7
4 жыл бұрын
Great great work.... This is as comprehensive a review you can get. I agree on your assessment and would get both if I could afford it.....
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Ronald!
@johnhmaw
4 жыл бұрын
Wonderful. I want one. Very comprehensive review as always. Many thanks.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks John.
@itsjantore
3 жыл бұрын
I used to own the Mixpre 3M, and a dealbreaker for me, who is doing a lot of interviews for branded content, is how power hungry the Mixpre is. Now, I only had the 4xAA battery adapter, and ended up buying a power bank for it, but being able to power the Zoom off of AA batteries for a whole day is important for me.
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
I don't get anywhere near a full day on the AA batteries in the F6.
@itsjantore
3 жыл бұрын
Curtis Judd Thats interesting concidering they state 20+ hours on the spec sheet. What hours are you getting?
@curtisjudd
3 жыл бұрын
@@itsjantore With disposable Li-Ion batteries, recording one channel without phantom power to MP3, maybe 20 hours. In real-world use with eneloop Ni-MH rechargeables and recording 32-bit float with two phantom powered channels I'm looking at more like 4 and half hours.
@itsjantore
3 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd I see, thanks for the info!
@albertofelicettii426
4 жыл бұрын
32-bit float works perfectly. Thanks Curtis
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
👍
@reivaxfun
4 жыл бұрын
32 bit float is now available in DaVinci Resolve ! And that's a good thing
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Yes, new as of 16.2 I believe. The waveform view still doesn't exactly work but it does process the audio correctly.
@RodrigoBustamante
4 жыл бұрын
Dear Curtis, thanks for posting this video. I am seriously considering getting this gear for pro-quality recording my string quartet on the road (obviously, with Neumann mics). Sounds like a hard choice among the pre-series and even a dedicated nor portable device. Thanks again for all important information.
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
You are most welcome, Rodrigo. Best wishes to you and the quartet!
@roryonabike5863
4 жыл бұрын
You should check out the musician versions of the MixPre recorders if you haven’t already.
@declicked
2 жыл бұрын
Awesome video! Was planning on getting one soon, and this has convinced me!
@curtisjudd
2 жыл бұрын
I hope it works well for you! Happy recording!
@jeremymurray-wakefield8011
4 жыл бұрын
You’ve made a mistake in the “recovery” section. The noise floor will be identical in all three sections as it is unaffected by fader operations. The “impressive” -100db noise floor that you were seeing is because you accidentally analysed a small part of section TWO that PRECEDED the bit of section two that you swiped for manual normalisation. Watch the video again and you’ll see what I mean. Rgds Jeremy (calibration specialist for a chip manufacturer for audio devices) P.S. Great video nonetheless - you’ve sold me; I’ll definitely be buying one over the next couple of days! :-)
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Jeremy! Appreciate the correction.
@Kit2Canada
4 жыл бұрын
Superb and nicely balanced between pros and cons. Thank you
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Kit!
@The_Daliban
2 жыл бұрын
First of all.wow.thanks for this in depth review. I was wondering why you would chose the premix for yourself? Is it because you are able to power higher end headphones? Or is it because you can set the gain in 32 bit float? Build quality? What is it Chris? I‘m dying to know:)
@curtisjudd
2 жыл бұрын
Yes, many little things: can set the gain, has an analogue limiter in 24-but mode, build quality, backup to USB thumb drive, better 3.5mm output, I prefer the menus of the MixPre, and a lot of other tiny things.
@The_Daliban
2 жыл бұрын
@@curtisjudd thank you. That was insightful. Keep it up
@markrussell.
4 жыл бұрын
Please Stop, my Credit Card is maxed out and it's all your fault with these outstanding product reviews of yours. Having said that you have one of the best channels on KZitem, I have learned so much from you, Thank You!
@curtisjudd
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Mark. Might be time for me to put together a video on when to buy and when NOT to buy new gear! 🤓
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