Zoom F1 – Tiny Recorder for Lavaliers and Shotgun Mics

January 29^th, 2018

Zoom F1 - Tiny Recorder for Lavaliers and Shotgun Mics

by Olaf von VossJanuary 29^th, 2018

The Zoom F1 is a very tiny, yet very versatile little guy. It’s a pocket-sized audio recorder which can be fed with everything from a lavalier mic to mono or stereo shotgun mics and even a mid-side stereo module and a dual XLR/TRS input module is available. Let’s have a look!

The pocket-sized Zoom F1 can do more than just record 24bit/96kHz sound from a lavalier mic, it actually features the same proprietary 10-pin connector which can be found on higher-priced Zoom audio recorders.

Zoom F1 Audio Recorder

There are two models available, but the only differences are the included accessories. This should prove the extreme versatility of the Zoom F1 recorder. You can choose between a lavlier equipped bundle or a kit with a shotgun mic. Zoom claims that all of their clip-on modules are compatible with the F1.

All seven (!) possible mics and modules which can be used with the Zoom F1.

Let’s have a look at the official videos made by Zoom in order to get an idea of how this tiny thing works. First up: Zoom F1 in conjunction with the lavalier mic attachment:

All the neccessary functions are laid out on the front of the unit, no deep menu-dives required. The Zoom F1 records up to 24bit/96kHz to WAV files or to various flavours of mp3. All recordings are written directly to a microSD card as a stereo file which can be edited in post easily. A handy lock switch prevents your talent from accidentally altering any settings while recording.

When using the Zoom F1 as a host for a shotgun mic, the situation is a different one. Now you can mount the unit directly to a DSRL for example and get both, internal recording and audio out to the DSLRs audio input. If that camera of yours lacks a headphone jack for monitoring audio, the Zoom F1 has got you covered, too! Watch the video below to see the F1 in action:

So we’ve got two different devices in one box here. Whatever you’re up to with the Zoom F1, it won’t let you down. With 2 AAA batteries you’re good to go for up to 10 hours of operation (with lavalier mic). Since the shotgun mic uses plug-in power, it will squash the batteries faster.

Features of the Zoom F1

In addition to the already cool features, the Zoom F1 has some more tricks up its sleeves. When using a micro USB cable you can connect it to your computer in either thumb-drive mode for data exchange or in audio-interface mode. With this special mode engaged you can record directly to your computer.

Another cool feature is the pre-record function. Two seconds of continuous recording can be buffered before even hitting the rec button. The 1.25″ monochromatic display is viewable even in direct sunlight. Check out the following list for a full rundown of the specs:

Two-channel audio recorder
Compatible with Zoom microphone capsules
Supports up to 24-bit/96 kHz audio in BWF-compliant WAV or a variety of MP3 formats
One-touch button controls
1.25” monochrome LCD display
Rec Hold function to avoid accidental operation of buttons
Stereo ⅛” Mic/Line In mini phone jack with Plug-in power (2.5V)
Stereo ⅛” Phone/Line Output jack with dedicated volume control
Built in limiter and auto level control to avoid clipping
Pre-Record function

Tone generator for calibrating audio levels between the F1 and a DSLR or video camera without the need for an attenuator cable
Sound marker function that outputs quick tone to make syncing audio and video easy
Records directly to micro SD and SDHC cards (class 4 or higher) up to 32 GB
Micro USB port for data exchange to and from computer and use as an audio interface with computer or iOS device
Runs on only 2 standard AAA alkaline, Lithium, or NiMH rechargeable batteries, or AC adapter (AD-17)
Up to 10 hours of operation with alkaline batteries (when using lavalier)

Pricing and Availability

There are two sets available. One comes with a lavalier mic, a lavalier clip and a belt clip. This set sells for $199.99 and should be available soon.

If you want to go run-and-gun with your DSLR, you should probably check out the other kit. That one comes with a SGH-6 mono shotgun mic module, a shockmount, a windscreen and a cable for connecting a DSLR. This kit sells for $249.99 and should be, again, available soon.

As per Zoom, every modules available can be attached to the F1, even though it’s not listed as a compatible device on their own product pages. Let’s see how the EXH-6 dual XLR/TRS combo input capsule works with the F1, for example. Hopefully it has enough power to drive the attached mics!