Zoom F3 vs Tascam X8 - Which is best for Wedding Filmmakers?

Summary

In this detailed comparison between the Tascam X8 and Zoom F3 audio recorders, Matt Johnson explores their features, pros, and cons for wedding filmmakers. The X8 offers a larger build, more inputs, and advanced controls, while the F3 provides simplicity, longer battery life, and a compact design at a lower price point. Both recorders deliver excellent 32-bit float audio quality, but the X8 is better suited for experienced users needing versatility, whereas the F3 is ideal for those seeking an affordable, easy-to-use recorder. The video helps filmmakers decide which model best suits their needs.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Tascam X8 is praised for being an advanced audio recorder with many features, ideal for wedding filmmakers, but the Zoom F3 offers similar functionality at a more affordable price.
• 😀 The Tascam X8 is significantly larger and heavier than the Zoom F3, but it has a full-color touchscreen with access to advanced settings, while the F3 uses a simpler black-and-white screen.
• 😀 The Tascam X8 offers more audio input options (6 inputs total), including combo XLR/quarter-inch jacks and detachable mics, while the Zoom F3 only has two XLR inputs.
• 😀 The Zoom F3 records in 32-bit float audio and offers a simplified audio setup with less control over settings, whereas the Tascam X8 provides more detailed control over audio quality, including the ability to record at lower bit depths and dual recording.
• 😀 Both recorders are capable of high-quality audio with 32-bit float, allowing for significant flexibility in post-production to adjust levels without introducing noise or distortion.
• 😀 The Zoom F3 supports larger memory cards (up to 1TB) and includes a helpful memory card speed test, while the Tascam X8 supports cards up to 512GB, but lacks a built-in speed test.
• 😀 The Zoom F3 has built-in timecode support, which is a notable advantage for users needing time synchronization for their recordings, while the Tascam X8 does not support timecode natively (it will be added later via Bluetooth).
• 😀 Both recorders support Bluetooth adapters for wireless control, but neither allows monitoring of audio levels remotely, limiting the usefulness of the Bluetooth functionality.
• 😀 In terms of battery life, the Zoom F3 lasts about an hour longer than the Tascam X8 when using phantom power, but the X8 performs better when using internal microphones (lasting up to 8 hours).
• 😀 Price-wise, the Zoom F3 is $150 cheaper than the Tascam X8, making it a great choice for budget-conscious filmmakers or those who only need basic recording features. The Tascam X8 is more suitable for those needing advanced features, more inputs, and greater control.

Q & A

What is the key difference in size between the Tascam X8 and the Zoom F3?

The Tascam X8 is approximately two and a half times larger than the Zoom F3, with the F3 being smaller and denser, making it more compact despite its metal body.

What makes the Tascam X8 stand out in terms of features compared to the Zoom F3?

The Tascam X8 offers a large, full-color touchscreen with many presets and deep customization options, while the Zoom F3 has a simpler, black-and-white screen with limited settings.

How many audio inputs do the Tascam X8 and Zoom F3 have?

The Tascam X8 has six main inputs, including four combo XLR/quarter-inch jacks and two built-in detachable microphones. The Zoom F3 has only two XLR inputs.

Do the Tascam X8 and Zoom F3 support 32-bit float audio recording?

Yes, both the Tascam X8 and Zoom F3 support 32-bit float audio, allowing for a wide dynamic range where quiet sounds can be boosted and loud sounds can be reduced without compromising quality.

What is the difference in how the Zoom F3 and Tascam X8 handle audio quality adjustments?

The Zoom F3 simplifies audio settings with a scrolling waveform but lacks a decibel-level readout. In contrast, the Tascam X8 provides detailed control with a decibel meter and a peaking light for precise monitoring.

How does the Zoom F3 perform in terms of memory card support compared to the Tascam X8?

The Zoom F3 supports memory cards up to 1 terabyte, while the Tascam X8 is limited to 512GB. Additionally, the F3 has a memory card speed test feature, which the X8 lacks.

How do the battery lives of the Zoom F3 and Tascam X8 compare?

The Zoom F3 lasts longer on two AA batteries, recording for 6 hours and 47 minutes, compared to the Tascam X8's 5 hours and 54 minutes on four AA batteries. However, the X8 lasts longer (8 hours and 38 minutes) when using its internal microphones without phantom power.

What is the startup time difference between the Zoom F3 and Tascam X8?

The Zoom F3 powers on and is ready to record in about 3 seconds, while the Tascam X8 takes around 10 seconds to boot up.

Which recorder is recommended for wedding filmmakers on a budget?

For budget-conscious filmmakers, the Zoom F3 is recommended, priced at $349, which is $150 cheaper than the Tascam X8, making it a great option for those seeking simplicity and portability.

Does the Tascam X8 support timecode, and how does it compare to the Zoom F3?

The Zoom F3 has built-in timecode support, which is great for synchronized multi-camera shoots. The Tascam X8, however, lacks timecode out of the box but will receive timecode support through a Bluetooth update in the future.