Anyone that has a Zoom F2, install firmware update 1.20 (released Feb 2022) from the Zoom site. It resolves the issue where the unit sometimes fails to record a file despite being in record mode; and the issue when recording when the recording will not stop (the file then also fails to record).
The Zoom F2 is a nice recorder, but not without issues. It's a shame they would chose to use a 3.5mm jack on a recorder cable of 32bit float. You would think they'd use something more professional such as XLRs or even a 1/8th jack to avoid the popping issue to begin with which comes from the weakness of the 3.5mm socket, I guess their primary use market is for people with lav mics. I suppose if you babied it, it would be fine even with a 3.5mm to 1/8th or 3.5mm to XLR adapter. But then what are they aiming this product at? You put a recorder capable of 32bit float, in a device like this, which is aimed at being attached to a lav mic. That's a lot of recording power just for one person walking around with a lav mic. Then you also really need the BT model to be able to monitor what's going on externally. At least some sort of gain monitor would be useful. As this video shows, 32bit is not infallible. Better you spend the money if you're going to buy a recorder (that only records in stereo) and get yourself an F3 instead, with sturdier mic jacks also. I'd recommend this, but only as a wireless lav device, and only if you added time code syncing also. Otherwise there are too many hassles and you might as well have just bought the F3 instead.
My zoom f1 battery door failed right before a wedding. Ended up taping and gluing it shut. Zoom sent me a brand new one, still in the box. Bought the tascam
Had a pair of the BT versions. Used them for a week before returning and grabbing Tentacle Track E's. Built in timecode, much better included mic, AMAZING app experience
@@MisterMayhem17I'm very late, but yes. The Track E has 32 bit float. I think the mk1 has a good lav included, but the mk2 doesn't have any lav included, only a built in mic
You forgot to mention a very important thing. The ZOOM F2 accepts synchronization via Time Code directly with Bluetooth. Can be used with the Atomos X sync or an UltraSync Blue for example. To synchronize sound and video in post production.
Zoom (like Behringer) was considered “pure garbage” in the audio community for years. If you want to use it, feel free. We will shoot a video with a Sound Devices recorder and the top of the line DPA’s.
@@TheLordcasio Not the same price range nor the same use... U can also use DPA DRK4001 with your Sound Device Recorder for about 50 000 US$. Zoom F2bt cost only 200 US$
@@sebasfilmedit The only device to synchronize timecode with F2-BT is Atomos Ultrasync Blue I believe. One can't synchronize timecode via blutooth between smartphone app and F2-BT without putting Ultrasync Blue in the middle. Still there are issues regarding BT timecode sync F2-BT if your device lost connection. So it's not real pro.
Matt at first I thought this was overhyped in such a tiny package but with your explanation my mind was 🤯 So just to be clear Matt are you saying that with this recorder I wouldn't have to worry about audio clipping??
Haha yup it’s pretty mind blowing! Just turn It on and hit record. Don’t worry about levels. In your case Denver you may wanna check out the zoom f6 for TH-cam videos. :)
32-bit float point recording means you never have to worry about clipping. Ever. Personally I'm a fan of the Tentacle Sync Track E, but the F2 does the same thing (without timecode).
Great video! I really like the 32 bit float on the Zoom F2. It can perfectly handle high SPL and dynamic sound from engine. With minor touch in post processing, the audio can be synced to the video and it does the job very well. The only cons is quality of the lav mic. I use deity w lav pro to improve the clarity.
Not same for same this is the budget version of those it looks like - Zoom undercutting Tentacle Sync - but there needs to be an option for people to spend less than $330 for single lav recorder - dope that it's 32bit float
I would say the the Track E is miles ahead of the F2, because of the built in timecode and much higher quality lav mic. If the ability to swap batteries is important, then the F2 is the way to go (although the Track E will last for 10+ hours on one charge). Five or six F2s or Track Es can replace all other audio gear for the ceremony and speeches. One in the DJ board, one in the XLR at the speaker and one on each person speaking (along with a TX650 on the actual wireless Mic from the DJ) and you've got audio covered.
I appreciate this very informative video; and am very glad to hear that Zoom has fixed the widely reported issue of microphone popping! I always respect your opinion.
I loved the ease of use and the decent recordings I was getting until… the device would refuse to end recordings or power off. So I would be forced to remove batteries in order to stop and I would lose the recording. Tried a reset and different memory card but no joy. It’s a killer. Can’t trust it for pro work.
hey Matt, great video！Really helpful！ I had found some problems while using the f2 BT. I used it for recording the sound of my moto-vlog. However, I still faced to clipping problem. I can edit the audio file(such as pulling it down, turning the db lower), but it didn’t save the whole sound. The edge of the sound wave was cut. My friend bought a same f2 BT, and used for moto-vlogging as well, and he got the same problem! So, I’m wondering if that’s our problems of setting or the problem of this device? Because the problems we’ve got seem like not a real 32 bit float recorder. (Ps, we tried different microphones, and the motorcycles were not super super loud, so we don’t think the volume went over the limit of the microphones. One of the microphones is the Rode videomicro, and the maximum spl is 140 db. We are pretty sure the motorcycles’ volume is lower than 140db) What do you think about our situation? Thanks man!
Matt, Thanks SOOO much for this video... I was terrified about all the cable connection popping sounds in all the reviews... Thanks for reaching out to ZOOM and letting us know they FIXED that problem in new hardware.... Now I just need for them to come in stock. -- Zork & Sweetie [ Professional POETS and BED Vloggers]
Hey Matt. Regarding the DJ soundboard subject. I use an XLR pad and from that I go XLR to mini jack into my DR-10L. Works wonders. Should work great for this as well.
I was thinking that for someone just starting, in budget, the zoom F2 should be a great single (only one) option to record both bride and groom, because of the 32bit technology, bride audio should better than a single tascam in the groom.
Thanks for the review. I bought serveral Zalman ZM-MIC1 for 7$ each and 3 used Olympus WS-811 Voice-Recorders on ebay for 20$ each (1x for groom, 1x for church audio-speakers and 1x as backup) - best audio solution I have used for almost 10 years. Good sound quality, loud enough, long battery life, big display with backlight, 2GB internal memory for up to 30 hours recording time, 192 kbit/s stereo recording quality (far enough for a voice). I see absolutely no reason to spend more money for a semi-pro projects like a wedding. Of course I use my Zoom H8 for any other situations, but a simple voice recorder doesnt have to be that expensive.
The amount of times I've went back to check if I've pushed record before the ceremony begins is too real every time you brought up the worry. Never remember if I have
I watched your VS video first and bought the zoom. Now I have my zoom I'm watching this sucker. Man the cheap plastic doors make me nervous. AND I freaking forgot on your first video about it not coming with a USB C cable. I was mucho annoyed. Great video man. Praying for the favor of the Lord to keep blessing you and your family! Love ya man!
Because of the way you present these products i unscribed from Northrup and subscribed to you...i really believe everything you just said about it and have no doubt it could be different...thank you
Thank you for this review! However, information about 32bit float files is not correct. 32bit file will not clip in digital domain, because of its huge headroom, but if clipping is happening at the source, for example - mic or preamp INPUT is hit by full blast, then it will be recorded anyway, because sound degradation/distortion is already done in analog side of things. ;) If Zoom has implemented some clever tech that prevents this from happening, then WOOOW! :) Other thing to take in to account, is the fact, that preamps and mics have self noise, and if you record things really quiet, but boost it by large amounts later in post, you'll get hiss. Of course, as we all know, dealing with hiss is something we should not sweat about. :D That being said, 32bit files are amazing, and really helps with setting gain, but they are still regular audio files, without any advantages over 24 or 16bit, other than enormous dynamic range. These files are not comparable to raw files of video world, because they will not take eq, compression or other FX better than 16 or 24bit as long as they are in lossless format, such as wav, aiff, etc. Hope this helps. :)
Great video. You recommend the COS-11 as an upgrade lav. However I believe that lav needs 5V to work properly and the Zoom only provides 2.5v Any chance you can test the performance of the lav? I suspect there will be an increase in the noise floor.
I'm going to buy 2 Tascam DR-10L units simply because you have used them on a daily basis and have recommended them in the past. I've also seen where they are almost bullet proof under most conditions. New technology is good, but I tend to go with what's tried and true.
FYI with the new firmware (1.2) you CAN format the SD card straight from the android/ios APP now, along with basically all of the other functions available on the PC sw.
One thing holding me back from getting this is that it isn't any store yet. Not even Amazon. It was apparently supposed to ship in December 2020, but as of February 2021, Vistek (Canada), B&H, Amazon Canada still have it listed as "on order". Zoom themselves haven't return social post messages or direct emails. A bit frustrating. And I'm ready to buy!
@@juju8470 like I said at the start of the video, it keeps your audio from being too loud or too quiet 😁 There are lower bits like 24 bit, but it doesn't give you this range of control over your audio.
Hey Matt...Thanks for the review, I am late to the game with this as I love my DR-10L so much...but the latest firmware version brings SD card formatting from the app
I have 10 olympus ws-822 recorders the work just fine. I saw an earlier video yiu did and started buying them on ebay. Great little recorder syncs up fine with vegas pro video
Well…your claim of “it will never distort” is slightly misleading. I’ve been doing location sound for 15 years, and from my experience, the lav element (or diaphragm…especially with the cheap lavs that come stock) are going to distort WAY before the recorder, even at 16 bit. You could pair it with the latest gen DPA lavs with CORE tech (those will never distort) but that is a $600 lav paired with…well…a Zoom (considered cheap in pro circles).
solid review again Matt! I hope that Zoom can upgrade the software on the phone app to be able to format...and hopefully they can beef up the battery door and micro SD card door....
Thank you for this review! One minor quibble I have about this is the lack o a 1/4 screw hole for easy mounting on a camera rig. I plan on using this with a rode videomicro for live concert recording and events, so I have to jerry rigg something to make it work.
Thanks for the great review, Matt! I would also suggest looking into Oscar Sound Tech lavalier mics. They are on par with Sanken and I think they are made in Seattle.
im probably your only viewer that ain't a photographer.... a musician...... i just need a small recorder with lav mike to slip in myshirt pocket in case i get a good idea for a song and need a way to get the sounds in my head recorded untell i can got home to a guitar..and bass.. this looks light simple and easy my kind of combination.. ... don't have to sink up later except to sink up what sounds i get to musical sounding things... to actually make music. fun video thanks... it sure looks like it might work. for that to..
Awesome video! But, I have questions: 1. Formatting the recorder on "revolutionary" Apple Silicone / Big Sur? 2. Programs for attenuating the audio on "revolutionary" Apple Silicone / Big Sur?
Hey Matt, I found out that this device has one big flaw, that is as you have 2 (or more) BT recorders! They both are named F2 in your phone app. Once you power on the second one, it is called F2(1). They can not be renamed in the app or the F2 Editor. Perhaps someone here has a neat hack or trick to distinguish the 2 devices apart. I use an Android app for that matter.
This is a great advancement in tech. Also, would love to see review of Tentacle Sync Track E audio recorder. Those Little bastards comes with a timecode, which is awesome
Great and thorough review! I've been testing this against a Rode Filmmaker Kit. The Rode is nice but at the price and with 32 bit Float this mic is pretty attractive.
XLR Battery Box is tempting as an add on to the F2... But then there is the F3 but then there is the F6 but then you may as well get the F8n Pro. doh! F6/F8n Pro let you record 32 bit while using it to live stream as an audio interface..
excellent video Matt!! I am very impressed to know it records 32 float at that price! A lot of the cost cutting issues you mentioned can be overlooked except the one of not being be able to connect correctly to a DJ sound board... that really sucks!!
This is not a cost cutting issue. DJ mixing boards output a line level signal. This is about 1 volt. The F2 has a mic input, which receives a mic level signal, which is around 0.01 volt. You are sending the F2 100 times the voltage that is is designed for. You need to use a passive DI box to convert the line level signal of the sound board down to the mic level signal that the F2, or any mic level input can handle.
Hi Matt, I picked up the F2 and your suggested lav mic upgrade (11D) and I'm not getting any sound with the 11D plugged in. The lav says it needs 3-10v plug-in power and the f2 says it supplies 2.5v. Could this be the problem? is there a way around this without buying a different recorder or lav?
I like to use lav mics running into recorders for my short films, and I would really like to step up to 32 bit recordings. Do you the Zoom F2 would perform pretty well for actors in films?
@@whoismatt That's what I'm thinking. I'll try to post a comment here saying if I liked it or not for short film applications. Thanks for your response!
You can pop the microsd into the vast majority of Android phones (zero iPhones) and format it there. Or, if you're concerned and want to keep the file structure exactly as it was when the app formatted it, just delete some/all of the files from the card (with the Files app or similar) and it will just free up the space without reformatting. Lastly, keep a stash of old or almost-free 8gb cards all over the place (camera bags, glovebox, wallet). Some day it will save your project (or make you someone's hero).
I'd be interested to know the ratio of filmmakers that have iPhones vs Android. I know the popular belief is video editors tend to skew towards favoring Macs for video editing, and I wonder if that applies to phones as well.
@@whoismatt My guess is they would skew more towards Apple as most creatives do. For the emergency purpose described above though, you could even ask to use someone else's. Just about guaranteed someone will have one. They also sell teeny tiny microsd card readers with lightning plugs. Probably a good idea to have one of those (or even one that reads full size sd cards) for multiple reasons also.
Now Matt has given thumbs up im all in :-). With regard to not being to format without cable and pc, if you already have another device like zoom h1n or tascam or anything that takes micro sd, just format in that device which will take up far less space in your kit bag than a laptop.
Two questions on it: do you know if there is a downside to simply formatting using your computer vs. the computer app? And do you think the tascam dr-10l lav would be better to use with the f2 or should I buy one of the ones you linked to?
I have two Zoom F1s with broken battery doors, where I have to change the tape to change batteries. I’m not going to buy another Zoom recorder until they have fixed the issue. I thought I was careful, but obviously not. I’d also like a proper time sync with these small independent recorders.
I am sorry if I am wrong but there is one big topic you did not talk about is the "Audio Test" during the recording, I mean not only the mic quality you talked about but during the shooting you do actual wanna hear the audio quality and if there is actually something being recorded. Is that possible with that device? Cause I don't think this mic is only made for weddings, but If I wanna use it for an interview and I can not listen to the audio, maybe a plane destroyed that audio...or it's not recording at all...or the battery is dead! lol
Great review! I'm researching to buy a recorder and was wondering if I can use this as external recorder with a descent mic (not xlr). Here in Greece wedding is a bit different - no vows or such so no needs for lav mic. Just need a good recorder and not worry about peaking or too low recording..
Hey Matt, love your reviews, they are always spot on. Can you please review the Tentacle Sync Track E also? I've been told that they compete very well with the zoom. Looking forward to seeing the Tentacle review soon. Great job again Matt.
I was always confused about recorders that have no monitoring... How do you know it's not rubbing against something and rustling? Even the beard moving over it would be audible...
Looking into buying one of these finally haha I still love the set and forget with these types of mics and at least ill have bluebooth unlike the tascam
😜 For more revolutionary content (and less cost-cutting), follow my Instagram: @whoismatt - instagram.com/whoismatt
Anyone that has a Zoom F2, install firmware update 1.20 (released Feb 2022) from the Zoom site. It resolves the issue where the unit sometimes fails to record a file despite being in record mode; and the issue when recording when the recording will not stop (the file then also fails to record).
This! Exactly what I was hoping to read. Glad as I've just run into the issue, and now have updated the firmware hoping it never happens again.
The Zoom F2 is a nice recorder, but not without issues. It's a shame they would chose to use a 3.5mm jack on a recorder cable of 32bit float. You would think they'd use something more professional such as XLRs or even a 1/8th jack to avoid the popping issue to begin with which comes from the weakness of the 3.5mm socket, I guess their primary use market is for people with lav mics. I suppose if you babied it, it would be fine even with a 3.5mm to 1/8th or 3.5mm to XLR adapter. But then what are they aiming this product at? You put a recorder capable of 32bit float, in a device like this, which is aimed at being attached to a lav mic. That's a lot of recording power just for one person walking around with a lav mic.
Then you also really need the BT model to be able to monitor what's going on externally. At least some sort of gain monitor would be useful. As this video shows, 32bit is not infallible. Better you spend the money if you're going to buy a recorder (that only records in stereo) and get yourself an F3 instead, with sturdier mic jacks also. I'd recommend this, but only as a wireless lav device, and only if you added time code syncing also. Otherwise there are too many hassles and you might as well have just bought the F3 instead.
My zoom f1 battery door failed right before a wedding. Ended up taping and gluing it shut. Zoom sent me a brand new one, still in the box. Bought the tascam
Oh no! I avoided the F1, it was too bulky
I had the same BS on my F1, why would trust them now. Tascam kicks it's ass and can take pro level lavaliere mics.
Okay you’re gonna have to share your audio editing tricks cuz that sounds outstanding.
Hell yeah
Had a pair of the BT versions. Used them for a week before returning and grabbing Tentacle Track E's. Built in timecode, much better included mic, AMAZING app experience
Does it also have 32bit float?
@@MisterMayhem17I'm very late, but yes. The Track E has 32 bit float. I think the mk1 has a good lav included, but the mk2 doesn't have any lav included, only a built in mic
@@DroopyPenguin95 appreciate your time 🙏 thanks
You forgot to mention a very important thing. The ZOOM F2 accepts synchronization via Time Code directly with Bluetooth. Can be used with the Atomos X sync or an UltraSync Blue for example. To synchronize sound and video in post production.
Zoom (like Behringer) was considered “pure garbage” in the audio community for years. If you want to use it, feel free.
We will shoot a video with a Sound Devices recorder and the top of the line DPA’s.
Can you use timecode with the phone app? Or timecode only works with those devices you mentioned?
@@TheLordcasio Not the same price range nor the same use... U can also use DPA DRK4001 with your Sound Device Recorder for about 50 000 US$. Zoom F2bt cost only 200 US$
@@sebasfilmedit The only device to synchronize timecode with F2-BT is Atomos Ultrasync Blue I believe. One can't synchronize timecode via blutooth between smartphone app and F2-BT without putting Ultrasync Blue in the middle. Still there are issues regarding BT timecode sync F2-BT if your device lost connection. So it's not real pro.
Matt at first I thought this was overhyped in such a tiny package but with your explanation my mind was 🤯 So just to be clear Matt are you saying that with this recorder I wouldn't have to worry about audio clipping??
Haha yup it’s pretty mind blowing! Just turn It on and hit record. Don’t worry about levels. In your case Denver you may wanna check out the zoom f6 for TH-cam videos. :)
@@whoismatt alright, alright, alright I will. This is so eye opening, thanks again Matt 👍🏼
32-bit float point recording means you never have to worry about clipping. Ever. Personally I'm a fan of the Tentacle Sync Track E, but the F2 does the same thing (without timecode).
@@TheSeanBampton do you need time code if you plug directly into camera?
@@whoismatt if you cant format the sd card, at a wedding isnt an easy solution just to bring backup SD cards?
Great video! I really like the 32 bit float on the Zoom F2. It can perfectly handle high SPL and dynamic sound from engine. With minor touch in post processing, the audio can be synced to the video and it does the job very well. The only cons is quality of the lav mic. I use deity w lav pro to improve the clarity.
To give some credit to Zoom, they replace the whole F1 unit if your battery door breaks. Even outside warranty. Looking forward to getting these BT.
Bought one of these, then bought another two! Love them
Nice!
Tentacle Sync E comparison, please!
might be an idea to add the tentacle synch recorders to your comparison vid too, as they're also 32bit and bluetooth I believe
Yaaas. I’ve been more interested in those too
Not same for same this is the budget version of those it looks like - Zoom undercutting Tentacle Sync - but there needs to be an option for people to spend less than $330 for single lav recorder - dope that it's 32bit float
I would say the the Track E is miles ahead of the F2, because of the built in timecode and much higher quality lav mic. If the ability to swap batteries is important, then the F2 is the way to go (although the Track E will last for 10+ hours on one charge). Five or six F2s or Track Es can replace all other audio gear for the ceremony and speeches. One in the DJ board, one in the XLR at the speaker and one on each person speaking (along with a TX650 on the actual wireless Mic from the DJ) and you've got audio covered.
What a reveal. That beard conceal was on point. 👏🏻
😂 boom!
I appreciate this very informative video; and am very glad to hear that Zoom has fixed the widely reported issue of microphone popping! I always respect your opinion.
Thanks Keith!
If somebody has been thinking how to hide mic on person - u got answer here, just grow a beard 😂
STEALTH 100
You would just need a -40db attenuation device to plug it into a line level device, I got one off Amazon for like £5, works a charm.
Can you link the one that you purchased please?
I loved the ease of use and the decent recordings I was getting until… the device would refuse to end recordings or power off. So I would be forced to remove batteries in order to stop and I would lose the recording. Tried a reset and different memory card but no joy. It’s a killer. Can’t trust it for pro work.
I had the same problem. Download the F2 Editor and update your firmware. That fixed the problem you mentioned. Hope it helps!
hey Matt, great video！Really helpful！
I had found some problems while using the f2 BT. I used it for recording the sound of my moto-vlog. However, I still faced to clipping problem. I can edit the audio file(such as pulling it down, turning the db lower), but it didn’t save the whole sound. The edge of the sound wave was cut. My friend bought a same f2 BT, and used for moto-vlogging as well, and he got the same problem! So, I’m wondering if that’s our problems of setting or the problem of this device? Because the problems we’ve got seem like not a real 32 bit float recorder. (Ps, we tried different microphones, and the motorcycles were not super super loud, so we don’t think the volume went over the limit of the microphones. One of the microphones is the Rode videomicro, and the maximum spl is 140 db. We are pretty sure the motorcycles’ volume is lower than 140db)
What do you think about our situation?
Thanks man!
Hey! Did you ever figure out the problem?
Whoa this "sounds" amazing. Thanks for the detailed review.
Thanks Ken!
Matt, Thanks SOOO much for this video... I was terrified about all the cable connection popping sounds in all the reviews... Thanks for reaching out to ZOOM and letting us know they FIXED that problem in new hardware.... Now I just need for them to come in stock. -- Zork & Sweetie [ Professional POETS and BED Vloggers]
Put your memory card in your mobile phone, then format it. Not an issue.
Everyone bought an Android phone with micro SD card reader? Would definitely make this easier! 😂
Or any other small micro sd device, like zoom h1n
Its cheaper to buy an android phone and use it just for that than a pc...
@@whoismatt If you don't have, get an old one for $30, and you can use it as a mp3 player too :)
Hey Matt. Regarding the DJ soundboard subject. I use an XLR pad and from that I go XLR to mini jack into my DR-10L. Works wonders. Should work great for this as well.
I was thinking that for someone just starting, in budget, the zoom F2 should be a great single (only one) option to record both bride and groom, because of the 32bit technology, bride audio should better than a single tascam in the groom.
Favorite line: "ZOOMGATE OVER." Baahahaha! This is SO fantastic Matt. Thank you for filling the gaps we missed!
Thanks y'all! Love youuuuu
Another great feature of the BT version is the ability to record time code, works perfectly with the Atomos & F6!
Do you need the UltraSync Blue for this?
lol @14:19 😂 his beard was the wind screen & pop filter!!!
It does it all 😜
Thanks for the review. I bought serveral Zalman ZM-MIC1 for 7$ each and 3 used Olympus WS-811 Voice-Recorders on ebay for 20$ each (1x for groom, 1x for church audio-speakers and 1x as backup) - best audio solution I have used for almost 10 years. Good sound quality, loud enough, long battery life, big display with backlight, 2GB internal memory for up to 30 hours recording time, 192 kbit/s stereo recording quality (far enough for a voice). I see absolutely no reason to spend more money for a semi-pro projects like a wedding. Of course I use my Zoom H8 for any other situations, but a simple voice recorder doesnt have to be that expensive.
Nice budget option!
The amount of times I've went back to check if I've pushed record before the ceremony begins is too real every time you brought up the worry. Never remember if I have
Glad I’m not alone 😂
I watched your VS video first and bought the zoom. Now I have my zoom I'm watching this sucker. Man the cheap plastic doors make me nervous. AND I freaking forgot on your first video about it not coming with a USB C cable. I was mucho annoyed. Great video man. Praying for the favor of the Lord to keep blessing you and your family! Love ya man!
Because of the way you present these products i unscribed from Northrup and subscribed to you...i really believe everything you just said about it and have no doubt it could be different...thank you
I hope tacam updates their dr-10l to a 32bit recorder with the same body
Thank you for this review! However, information about 32bit float files is not correct. 32bit file will not clip in digital domain, because of its huge headroom, but if clipping is happening at the source, for example - mic or preamp INPUT is hit by full blast, then it will be recorded anyway, because sound degradation/distortion is already done in analog side of things. ;) If Zoom has implemented some clever tech that prevents this from happening, then WOOOW! :) Other thing to take in to account, is the fact, that preamps and mics have self noise, and if you record things really quiet, but boost it by large amounts later in post, you'll get hiss. Of course, as we all know, dealing with hiss is something we should not sweat about. :D That being said, 32bit files are amazing, and really helps with setting gain, but they are still regular audio files, without any advantages over 24 or 16bit, other than enormous dynamic range. These files are not comparable to raw files of video world, because they will not take eq, compression or other FX better than 16 or 24bit as long as they are in lossless format, such as wav, aiff, etc. Hope this helps. :)
F2 recorder makes an amazing combo when used together with the new generation wireless lavalier mic systems.
Great video. You recommend the COS-11 as an upgrade lav. However I believe that lav needs 5V to work properly and the Zoom only provides 2.5v Any chance you can test the performance of the lav? I suspect there will be an increase in the noise floor.
Sweetwater rox, I went to see a drum clinic a few years ago and they have a beautiful space in Fort Wayne.
How would you compare these to the Tentacle Track E?
I saw Gerald Undone’s comparison, but I was curious how you would feel with weddings.
Matt! Your video quality is absolutely stunning! It looks like a Gerald Undone studio makeover!
😂 slowly getting better at lighting
I'm going to buy 2 Tascam DR-10L units simply because you have used them on a daily basis and have recommended them in the past. I've also seen where they are almost bullet proof under most conditions. New technology is good, but I tend to go with what's tried and true.
FYI with the new firmware (1.2) you CAN format the SD card straight from the android/ios APP now, along with basically all of the other functions available on the PC sw.
hey Matt, couldn't you just buy an attenuator if you want to use the F2 for line level recording?
I am wondering the same thing. Did you find anything about this?
One thing holding me back from getting this is that it isn't any store yet. Not even Amazon. It was apparently supposed to ship in December 2020, but as of February 2021, Vistek (Canada), B&H, Amazon Canada still have it listed as "on order". Zoom themselves haven't return social post messages or direct emails. A bit frustrating. And I'm ready to buy!
Sold on the technology, but I’ll wait for Tascam to to build it better.
Hope they release some 32 bit float options soon!
What does bit mean? Is higher the bit better? I also want to buy a tascam dr-10l in the near future. I guess I will wait!
@@juju8470 like I said at the start of the video, it keeps your audio from being too loud or too quiet 😁 There are lower bits like 24 bit, but it doesn't give you this range of control over your audio.
Hey Matt...Thanks for the review, I am late to the game with this as I love my DR-10L so much...but the latest firmware version brings SD card formatting from the app
Thanks for your interesting review. I chose the BT version, since formatting is now easily done via the phone app (i use android).
You are awesome Always introducing me to the best tools!
if you're on location you could use your camera to format the card that you are using for the zoom f2
Good call, but then you're introducing the camera's file structure and folders to the micro SD card, which will hopefully not cause an issue.
I have 10 olympus ws-822 recorders the work just fine. I saw an earlier video yiu did and started buying them on ebay. Great little recorder syncs up fine with vegas pro video
imagine if you could monitor the audio with a headset on your phone, that would be well worth the upgrade. Maybe f3 ....
Well…your claim of “it will never distort” is slightly misleading. I’ve been doing location sound for 15 years, and from my experience, the lav element (or diaphragm…especially with the cheap lavs that come stock) are going to distort WAY before the recorder, even at 16 bit. You could pair it with the latest gen DPA lavs with CORE tech (those will never distort) but that is a $600 lav paired with…well…a Zoom (considered cheap in pro circles).
That's right!
No wonder you have 280K subscribers! This content was f'n great, bro!!
When Matt adds a new video, no one has to worry about me not being turned on.
😂😂😂
I think the format code is "minus, minus, plus, plus, stop, play, stop, play, on, hold, record" Just try it!
I'm very gullible, are you speaking the truth?
😂😂😂
@@usernamenotvisibIe it is a joke, inspired by Matt's reference to Konami. 😁
solid review again Matt! I hope that Zoom can upgrade the software on the phone app to be able to format...and hopefully they can beef up the battery door and micro SD card door....
Thanks so much Paul! I doubt they will do anything to the battery or memory card door, but we can hope! 😁
@@whoismatt may have to just add a bit of gaffer's to protect/keep from opening.
Thank you for this review! One minor quibble I have about this is the lack o a 1/4 screw hole for easy mounting on a camera rig. I plan on using this with a rode videomicro for live concert recording and events, so I have to jerry rigg something to make it work.
Yeah that’s definitely a bummer. May need to rig up a strap of some sort you could clip it to
I wouldn’t want one, extra weight. Just fashion your own for this special use case
@@TVideoupload don't quite understand where the extra weight is since is a hole.
@@andreistefan5883 usually they have a metal sleeve or if cheap it needs room and more plastic to accommodate the threading.
@@TVideoupload that would still be insignificant in terms of weight. But no matter, it is what it is.
with the new firmware you can now format the SD card from the app on your phone.....
Thanks for the great review, Matt! I would also suggest looking into Oscar Sound Tech lavalier mics. They are on par with Sanken and I think they are made in Seattle.
Thanks! Haven't heard of them, I'll check them out
im probably your only viewer that ain't a photographer.... a musician...... i just need a small recorder with lav mike to slip in myshirt pocket in case i get a good idea for a song and need a way to get the sounds in my head recorded untell i can got home to a guitar..and bass.. this looks light simple and easy my kind of combination.. ... don't have to sink up later except to sink up what sounds i get to musical sounding things... to actually make music. fun video thanks... it sure looks like it might work. for that to..
Awesome video! But, I have questions:
1. Formatting the recorder on "revolutionary" Apple Silicone / Big Sur?
2. Programs for attenuating the audio on "revolutionary" Apple Silicone / Big Sur?
Hey Matt,
I found out that this device has one big flaw, that is as you have 2 (or more) BT recorders!
They both are named F2 in your phone app. Once you power on the second one, it is called F2(1).
They can not be renamed in the app or the F2 Editor.
Perhaps someone here has a neat hack or trick to distinguish the 2 devices apart.
I use an Android app for that matter.
This is a great advancement in tech.
Also, would love to see review of Tentacle Sync Track E audio recorder. Those Little bastards comes with a timecode, which is awesome
Great and thorough review! I've been testing this against a Rode Filmmaker Kit. The Rode is nice but at the price and with 32 bit Float this mic is pretty attractive.
Met your dad today at whataburger. Great guy.
😂 he’s my biggest fan
@@whoismatt i could tell hahaha
I may add this to my wishlist for 2023 :)
XLR Battery Box is tempting as an add on to the F2... But then there is the F3 but then there is the F6 but then you may as well get the F8n Pro. doh! F6/F8n Pro let you record 32 bit while using it to live stream as an audio interface..
Waiting in the f10
@@whoismatt Waiting for all the rich kids to buy F8n Pro's so I can buy a F8n for cheap I think. ;)
excellent video Matt!! I am very impressed to know it records 32 float at that price! A lot of the cost cutting issues you mentioned can be overlooked except the one of not being be able to connect correctly to a DJ sound board... that really sucks!!
This is not a cost cutting issue. DJ mixing boards output a line level signal. This is about 1 volt. The F2 has a mic input, which receives a mic level signal, which is around 0.01 volt. You are sending the F2 100 times the voltage that is is designed for. You need to use a passive DI box to convert the line level signal of the sound board down to the mic level signal that the F2, or any mic level input can handle.
@@JerryGartnerPersonal thanks for the explanation Jerry!
@@AndresArosemena You are welcome. I am learning about this stuff all the time!
@@JerryGartnerPersonal as we all should be!
A passive DI box can get DJ line-level signal down to mic level. About $100.00 for a reasonably good one.
Yes!!!! Had the tascam DR10L and jumped on this pre order amazing device!
I own the Tascam but I think I want one of these just because of this video 😂
Hi Matt, I picked up the F2 and your suggested lav mic upgrade (11D) and I'm not getting any sound with the 11D plugged in. The lav says it needs 3-10v plug-in power and the f2 says it supplies 2.5v. Could this be the problem? is there a way around this without buying a different recorder or lav?
I like to use lav mics running into recorders for my short films, and I would really like to step up to 32 bit recordings. Do you the Zoom F2 would perform pretty well for actors in films?
Yes, you may wanna upgrade the mics but the recorders should work great
@@whoismatt That's what I'm thinking. I'll try to post a comment here saying if I liked it or not for short film applications. Thanks for your response!
They should make a case for this recorder 😳
Hmm, other reviews don’t paint it in the same light.
Yup and I've watched all of them. It's not a bad recorder, especially for the price.
thats coz other reviewers arent tryin to sell you stuff from their affiliate links...
Behold! This man grew his own deadcat to cut down workflow! He’s wind proof!
Deadbeard
You can pop the microsd into the vast majority of Android phones (zero iPhones) and format it there. Or, if you're concerned and want to keep the file structure exactly as it was when the app formatted it, just delete some/all of the files from the card (with the Files app or similar) and it will just free up the space without reformatting. Lastly, keep a stash of old or almost-free 8gb cards all over the place (camera bags, glovebox, wallet). Some day it will save your project (or make you someone's hero).
I'd be interested to know the ratio of filmmakers that have iPhones vs Android. I know the popular belief is video editors tend to skew towards favoring Macs for video editing, and I wonder if that applies to phones as well.
@@whoismatt My guess is they would skew more towards Apple as most creatives do. For the emergency purpose described above though, you could even ask to use someone else's. Just about guaranteed someone will have one. They also sell teeny tiny microsd card readers with lightning plugs. Probably a good idea to have one of those (or even one that reads full size sd cards) for multiple reasons also.
Great video! Which recorder would you recommend for picking up the DJ soundboard?
Zoom h4n is still my go to. If you have the budget though, get the zoom f6
@@whoismatt Thanks for the reply! I'll look into those :)
Now Matt has given thumbs up im all in :-). With regard to not being to format without cable and pc, if you already have another device like zoom h1n or tascam or anything that takes micro sd, just format in that device which will take up far less space in your kit bag than a laptop.
I appreciate all your tutorials mate.... legend 🙌
ok so i have one for the bride and one for the groom. sooooo how do I use the app for both to start and stop the recording?
What's your thoughts on the Rode Lavalier GO Professional Wearable Microphone? Not recommended?
Just pop the SDcard to Zoom H1n for formatting.. which you carry anyway. :)
@1:52 Peach creek ranch!
Love that place!
They need to make a right angle connector. Those wires end up making the small footprint much larger.
The iOS app now supports formating the SD card. (Atleast there is an option for it)
The first short coming that came to mind, in comparison to the Tascam, is that I don't see a white option for brides.
They sell an international version in white, but strangely only a black version in the US
Awesome video! Can’t wait for the comparison!!
Two questions on it: do you know if there is a downside to simply formatting using your computer vs. the computer app? And do you think the tascam dr-10l lav would be better to use with the f2 or should I buy one of the ones you linked to?
I have the 10L. Cant wait to see the side by side audio,,,, or hear?
😂👍
I have two Zoom F1s with broken battery doors, where I have to change the tape to change batteries. I’m not going to buy another Zoom recorder until they have fixed the issue. I thought I was careful, but obviously not.
I’d also like a proper time sync with these small independent recorders.
I am sorry if I am wrong but there is one big topic you did not talk about is the "Audio Test" during the recording, I mean not only the mic quality you talked about but during the shooting you do actual wanna hear the audio quality and if there is actually something being recorded. Is that possible with that device? Cause I don't think this mic is only made for weddings, but If I wanna use it for an interview and I can not listen to the audio, maybe a plane destroyed that audio...or it's not recording at all...or the battery is dead! lol
Great Job, Matt! Thank you!
I wanted to point out that this device will not record in stereo. With a stereo mic plugged in, the F2 will only record the left channel.
Always enjoy your content!
Thank you so much for great review
Great review! I'm researching to buy a recorder and was wondering if I can use this as external recorder with a descent mic (not xlr). Here in Greece wedding is a bit different - no vows or such so no needs for lav mic. Just need a good recorder and not worry about peaking or too low recording..
Possibly, it really depends on if the mic needs phantom power or not. The f2 doesn’t provide a ton of power to the mic
I like the idea of using this device. I will use it mainly to record interviews on the field. The question is…. Can I use a Lav mic with this device?
This has got to be the dumbest question I've ever heard, just watch the video!
Nice review! Do you have a video how you process your voice audio?
Hey Matt, love your reviews, they are always spot on. Can you please review the Tentacle Sync Track E also?
I've been told that they compete very well with the zoom.
Looking forward to seeing the Tentacle review soon.
Great job again Matt.
Thanks! I'll see about picking one up :)
@@whoismatt I'll loan you one if you'd like. I have 2 👍
I was always confused about recorders that have no monitoring... How do you know it's not rubbing against something and rustling? Even the beard moving over it would be audible...
Looking into buying one of these finally haha I still love the set and forget with these types of mics and at least ill have bluebooth unlike the tascam
Thanks for your stellar review!