12Oct Zoom H1 vs. Tascam DR-08 (update)
I’ve been using the Zoom H1 and Tascam DR-08 as ‘body packs’ instead of using a Wireless setup. I’m still using the old Audio Technica ATR-3350 Lavalier Microphone
Unfortunately, possibly a Tascam Firmware issue, the Tascam DR-08 could not see the 8GB microSD card. Only the Zoom H1 was able to see and utilize the full 8GB providing 4 times more recording time. You never know how long it’s going to take for an event to get started, or how long until it’s over, so I just felt safer with the unit that can house the larger microSD card. Here’s another tip that’s a bit related. Regular batteries don’t stand a fair chance with today’s electronics. I hear many people complaining about how fast a battery grip with AA’s, LED lights, or an Audio Recorder can run down batteries very quickly. I push the Eneloop batteries not only because they are rechargeable, but because they DO hold 4 times more capacity than a regular battery. If you want to use your Zoom H1 as a body pack, give it a fighting chance and put some quality batteries in.
Buy Zoom H1 via Amazon
Buy Zoom H1 via BHPHOTOVIDEO
Buy Zoom H1 via eBay
Buy Sanyo Eneloop Power Pack Kit via BHPHOTOVIDEO
Buy Sanyo Eneloop via Amazon
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October 12th, 2010 at 6:52 am
Hi, Good post. I’m also using the H1 with that mic but have noticed it is a mono mic unless mine is broken!
October 12th, 2010 at 7:07 am
Yes, most LAV mics are mono. You would just duplicate the track in post.
October 12th, 2010 at 8:58 am
That’s odd the DR-08 won’t see an 8gb card. The DR-07 has no problem, though it still only records in 2gb chunks.
October 12th, 2010 at 9:47 am
Hi Emm, have you ever tried or considered trying the Tekkeon power system? Lately I’ve seen a few folks mention it. I’d be curious to hear your thoughts on this system.
October 12th, 2010 at 10:30 am
are you just placing the mics in the interviewee’s pockets w/ out a case. If you are using a case, which one?
October 12th, 2010 at 3:18 pm
No case. Just placed in pocket with a lav mic to the collar.
October 12th, 2010 at 3:19 pm
I’ve seen it, never used it. Looks handy.
October 14th, 2010 at 2:04 pm
Has anyone measured the drift on this unit? How long will they run in sync?
Regards,
Malcolm
October 14th, 2010 at 7:13 pm
I love my DR-08.
January 11th, 2011 at 11:09 pm
What are the preferred input levels of the zoom h1 Emm?
January 11th, 2011 at 11:52 pm
@Dric – I think I set mine around 80.
January 17th, 2011 at 6:39 pm
How do I get the Zoom H1 to be recognized by the desktop? I have purchased the official accessory pack and cable yet the computer can’t find it. I pitched out the Tascam as it had difficult & limited file mgt features. Any help out there? thanx. TK
January 17th, 2011 at 6:54 pm
@TK – Turn off the Zoom H1. Plug in the USB and then to the computer. It should automatically detect and power it on to USB mode.
January 3rd, 2012 at 10:04 am
The TR-08 will use Sandisk cards up to 32GB, 8GB Panasonic, 4GB Lexar, 8GB A-Data, 4GB Polaroid…
There’s a PDF of tested media on their site:
http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/39/dr-08_dr-03(vr10_20)_media_list_en_r4_20110427.pdf
March 8th, 2012 at 4:50 pm
Hi bought both product, the tascam because is more easy to put in a pocket, and the tascam as backup. I have to say that the tascam is built better, but is beated from the quality of the recording of the zoom using the builtin mics. The zoom h1 is awesome!
March 23rd, 2012 at 2:34 am
I dont think that the Zoom H1 has better audio quality – after I did read many reviews with “audio issues” and after I bought the H1 I myself did tests. I was able to compare the audio files to a tascam dr-08. The Tascam is better in many ways.
So, I sold my Zoom H1 and got the DR-08. After a year later I got the DR-05 which beats both (H1 and DR-08) in any aspects. Zoom was a pioneer in mobile HDSLR recording but tascam is better built and sounds better.