Zoom R Series Setup Guide
The Zoom R Series digital recorder is a great multi-use device that you can take anywhere! That’s why in this guide, we’ll show you how to get up and running so you can start recording in no time. Follow the instructions below to get started.
- Register the R Series with Zoom
- Setting up the R Series for the first time
- Create a project
- Using the R Series as an audio interface
Register the R Series with Zoom
The first thing you’ll want to do when you open the box is to register R Series with Zoom. To register the R Series with Zoom, you’ll need the serial number located on the bottom. Follow these steps below to register the Zoom R Series.
- Go to Zoom’s product registration page.
- Fill out the information, including the serial number which is located on the bottom of the unit, and then click Submit.
Setting up the Zoom R Series for the first time
While it might be tempting just to turn it on and start recording, there are a few things you’ll want to do first, especially if it’s going to rely on battery power. Don’t worry though, setting it up is straightforward.
Power options (selecting the battery type)
TIP: If you’re running on batteries, you can lengthen battery life by reducing the phantom power to 24v. Please note that most condenser mics will work perfectly fine on 24v, but some may require the full 48v to operate correctly. Double-check your microphone specs to be sure.
One great thing about the Zoom R Series recorders is that you have quite a few power options available: they can be powered by a computer (bus-powered), AA batteries, a standard USB AC power supply, and even a USB power bank! If you own a Zoom R16 or R24, you can also use the Zoom AD14 power supply. If you are using AA batteries, you will need to update the power settings so that the R Series can show that the battery charge level is accurate.
- Press TOOL, go to SYSTEM, then press ENTER.
- Select BATTERY, use the jog wheel to select the type of battery being used, then press ENTER.
- Rechargeable batteries can be used, but the R Series cannot recharge them.
Set the time and date
When you first power on the Zoom R Series, you should update the time and date. Setting this is especially helpful for managing your files and determining when the audio was recorded.
- Press the TOOL button, select SYSTEM, then press ENTER.
- Scroll down to DATE/TIME, then press ENTER.
- Use the jog wheel to update the date and time.
- Once complete, move the cursor to OK, then press ENTER.
Format the SD card
IMPORTANT: Formatting the SD card will erase any data that is currently stored there. Be sure that anything essential has been backed up to your computer before continuing.
The last thing you’ll want to do before you start recording is format the SD card on the Zoom R Series. While you can format SD cards on your computer, formatting them on the R Series will maximize its performance. The R Series accepts SDHC cards with a 32GB capacity. If the card isn’t recognized or you’re receiving errors, your card may not be compatible. Check out the Zoom R8, R16, and R24 compatibility lists.
- Press TOOL, select SD CARD, then press ENTER.Per
- Select FORMAT, press ENTER, select YES, then press ENTER.
R8: Compatible SD Cards
R16: Compatible SD Cards
R24: Compatible SD Cards
Create a project
Now that everything is set up, it’s time to create your project and start recording! It’s just a matter of creating the project, connecting your gear, selecting the tracks, then pressing the record button.
NOTE: The file size is dependent on the sample rate and bit depth you select. The higher the quality, the larger the file will be. Check out the chart below for maximum recording time. Please note that these times are for mono tracks. The time is halved for stereo recordings.
- Press the PROJECT button, select NEW, then press ENTER.
- Select NAME, press ENTER, then use the jog wheel to update the name.
- Update the settings (bit length, insert effect, send-return effect, track status, bounce, track parameter, metronome) and sample rate, select EXECUTE, then press ENTER.
Record audio
Once your project is created, it’s time to record some audio. You’ll need to connect your instrument and microphone, switch to the correct input, adjust the input levels, and begin recording.
- Connect your instrument to one of the inputs of your device.
- Use the INPUT switch to select what is currently connected.
- If you’re connecting a stereo instrument, connect the L output to input 1, and the R to input 2.
- Press the INPUT ON/OFF button so the light illuminates, play the loudest you’ll be recording at and adjust the input gain to a point where the signal won’t clip.
- Select the track(s) you’ll be recording by pressing the track number pad located above its respective fader.
- Adjust the faders to adjust the monitoring volume to a point where it’s not clipping.
- Press REC to arm the track, then press PLAY to begin recording.
Using the R Series as an audio interface
Not only is the R Series a great portable recording solution, but it’s also a USB audio interface and DAW controller! If you’re a Mac user, it’s plug-and-play, meaning no additional driver software is needed.
- (PC users only) Download and install the driver for your R Series recorder from the Zoom website.
- Connect the device to your computer, press the USB button, select AUDIO I/F, select EXECUTE, then press ENTER.
- Go to your DAW’s audio settings and update the input and output to set the R Series as the recording and playback device.
Check out our DAW controller setup guides to learn how to set up your R Series as a control surface in your DAW!
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Additional resources
Zoom R Series: Importing Files to Computer
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