Zoom Q8 - world's smallest (and cheapest) XLR camcorder

[Bamboopictures]

For just USD399, this is a must-buy for event videographers, if only just for a master shot with backup audio.
AND IT SHOOTS IN 2.4K RESOLUTION
Webcam USB output compatible with most live streaming service providers.
Ideal for mounting on a DSLR too as a master /conti angle-cum-XLR recorder.

[video=youtube;ylsvOQyg6Io]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylsvOQyg6Io[/video]

 

[JacePhoto]

Interesting product.

 

[Deunamist]

it certainly is. it's only a 16.6mm prime lens right?

 

[Bamboopictures]

it certainly is. it's only a 16.6mm prime lens right?

160 degree angle coverage. Digital zoom only. But 2.4K resolution will allow some zooming without much resolution loss.

 

[RyanKhoo]

interesting ... but can this be used as a wireless audio device ?

I always have problem of capturing video of people talking. The audio is always mixed with ambience sound !

can this be a solution ?

if connects a xlr mic, can still see the cable, right ?

Thanks

 

[Bamboopictures]

The Zoom Q8 is a camcorder with very good audio features but it will not eliminate background noise.

To cut down on ambient noise, make sure your mic is placed very close to the subject.
1) You can place cabled or wireless lavalier mics on your subjects. Zoom Q8 can support up to 4 tracks of audio. (2 mono XLR and 1 stereo pair via 3.5mm input)

2) You can boom a shotgun mic (for outdoors) or a supercardiod (for indoors) over your subject's head. There are now many cheap wireless 2.4GHz tranciever sets to use with 3.5mm mics. Or go with senheisser SKP 100 wireless XLR if you are using XLR mics.
If you prefer cables, Zoom Q8 can even supply phantom power to your XLR mics. Cables can run through a boom and out of shot into the Zoom Q8.

If you are shooting with GH4/ VG30, Zoom Q8 makes a good companion by providing a wider shot or a two-shot while your GH4/VG30 is on close-up. The Zoom Q8 is actually cheaper than any balanced XLR solutions for GH4/VG30 ($2000 YAGH and $700 XLR-K2M respectively) and you get another camera angle as a bonus.
This extra angle will help you synch your audio and can be used to aid continuity by preventing jump cuts in single cam set-ups.

For example when shooting an interview, you can cover a 2 shot with the Zoom Q8 and cable up the interviewer's and interviewee's lavs into separate XLR inputs on the Zoom Q8. You can use your main cameras just for head shots. In post, you can pan the 2 audio tracks to centre balance and mute the silent party's track when just one person is talking. This will significantly reduce ambient noise compared to having the 'air-track' in the mix.

 

[RyanKhoo]

If you are shooting with GH4/ VG30, Zoom Q8 makes a good companion by providing a wider shot or a two-shot while your GH4/VG30 is on close-up. The Zoom Q8 is actually cheaper than any balanced XLR solutions for GH4/VG30 ($2000 YAGH and $700 XLR-K2M respectively) and you get another camera angle as a bonus.
This extra angle will help you synch your audio and can be used to aid continuity by preventing jump cuts in single cam set-ups.

Based on this statement, I think I will have to buy the Zoom Q8 already :sweat:

 

[RyanKhoo]

Fou USD399, does it comes with all the 3 mics shown in 1:06 to 1:12 ? Thanks

For just USD399.

[video=youtube;ylsvOQyg6Io]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylsvOQyg6Io[/video]

 

[Bamboopictures]

the supplied detachable stereo X/Y microphone (XYQ-8) is the only mic in black. The shiny ones are all optional accessories.

 

[JacePhoto]

sorry for the noob question.

Is there a Lavier clip on Mic that is on XLR? Does it record better audio quality in this case?

(I am thinking Lavier Clip On Mic to Zoom Q8 interface).

 

[Bamboopictures]

Yes, there are many brands of XLR lavs to choose from. Prices range from $80 to $400. XLR lavs are the safest mics to use since they are immune to interference. If you already have a Rode Lav mic, all you need is a $30 Rode micon 5 XLR adapter to convert it into a cabled mic.

 

[JacePhoto]

cool. thanks.

I am using the Seinheisser G3. Wondering how to adapt that w XLR. haha

 

[kandinsky]

cool. thanks.

I am using the Seinheisser G3. Wondering how to adapt that w XLR. haha

Your G3 set should come with a XLR cable for the receiver, unless you bought 2nd hand and the owner didn't include it...

Bottom row, centre.

 

[Bamboopictures]

cool. thanks.

I am using the Seinheisser G3. Wondering how to adapt that w XLR. haha

To use the senheisser lav (minus the wireless set) wuth the zoom Q8 via XLR cable, you will need this senny adapter.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/387918-REG/Sennheiser_MZA900P_MZA_900_P.html

 

[JacePhoto]

Your G3 set should come with a XLR cable for the receiver, unless you bought 2nd hand and the owner didn't include it...

Bottom row, centre.

Oh ya hor. Forgot to look into the box. Haha. Had chuck the box in the storeroom.

Wah, the Senny adaptor is expensive siah!

 

[Bamboopictures]

Wah, the Senny adaptor is expensive siah!

Agree. For the rather mediocre ME2 lavaliere , may not be worth it. You can buy a proper dedicate XLR lavalier for that price.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1014097-REG/mxl_fr_366_lavalier_interview_kit.html

 

[JacePhoto]

noted. thanks Rodney.

 

[Anson]

Bad news for those who bought their Zoom Q4

 

[Morgan Calton]

In March/April I'm going to be doing a charity cycle over 2000miles through Asia and I want to capture it as part of a film it as part of a larger doco. Obviously the big plus of this is the superior audio (and it's weight) to many other camcorders, but would it be suitable as a camera for filming in this instance? How is the battery life/durability?

 

[Bamboopictures]

Exciting project! But no, the Zoom Q8 is not the right camcorder for this one cos this Zoom can't zoom!
The lens is a fixed 17mm. Good as a second camera but not an all-rounder. Battery life is 2 hours so many spares required.

For your adventure, a Sony NX30 would be an ideal companion. It is a very compact handheld documentary camcorder with XLR audio and an amazing built-in image stabilizer. Battery life is 7 hours. Construction is very rugged to boot but not weather-sealed.

For rainy/dusty days, the weathersealed Sony RX10 would be a better buddy. You will need to add XLR-K2M for XLR options.

The combination is slightly bulkier than the NX30 but the bonus is you will get great photos as well as awesome video. (and its also cheaper than the NX30!!!)

Of course, don't forget to pack your GoPro!

Traveller's gear (essentials or luxuries?)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...ph_10_lightweight_prosumer_pan_tilt_head.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/886213-REG/Velbon_ut_43d_l1_UT_43D_6_Section_Aluminum.html
http://www.edelkrone.com/p/329/pocket-series