Zoom F1 SP 

2-Input / 2-Track Portable Field Recorder with Shotgun Microphone

Overview

Record clear, crisp dialog in a hurry for your next run-and-gun video shoot or interview with the Zoom F1-SP, a 2-track portable field recorder with an onboard limiter and auto-level control providing distortion-free 24-bit audio, and 3-capsule, supercardioid shotgun microphone for easy setup on your camera. Whereas other F-Series recorders such as the F4, F6, and F8n are centered around a sound bag–ready form factor, the F1-SP's diminutive size is tailored for camera- or tripod-mounted placement.

From the easy-to-read backlit display and simple one-touch controls to the long battery life, the F1-SP is properly equipped to serve you reliably, regardless of your audio background. Whether you need long-duration recording for a wedding, professional audio capture for an interview, or a space-saving setup for outdoor shoots, the F1-SP is ready to handle your crucial audio tasks.

Plus, its operational simplicity ensures that the F1-SP will never get in the way of your workflow, be it simple, complex, or always changing. You can feel confident using it as your main recorder, a USB audio interface for your dedicated computer or iPad rig, or a backup unit for added safety.

Directional 3-Capsule Shotgun Microphone

The included SGH-6 mono shotgun microphone attaches directly to the 10-pin Zoom mic capsule input, no cables needed! It features three internal mic capsules to produce a supercardioid polar pattern that delivers focused directionality across the frequency spectrum. Step back from your subject to get the right shot, and know that the SGH-6 is accurately delivering the sound of your source.

Shockmount Reduces Vibration and Handling Noise

Supplied with the F1-SP is an SMF-1 shockmount, which was engineered to eliminate unwanted thumping sounds caused by vibrations when shooting on the move. It also grants easy attachment to your DSLR camera.

Onboard Limiter and Auto-Level Prevent Clipping

The F1-SP utilizes an onboard limiter and automatic level control to provide protection against overloading the A/D converters. Record with confidence knowing that sudden volume spikes won't distort or clip your files.

Configurable Recording Settings

The F1-SP boasts a slew of recording resolutions to choose from—48 to 320 kb/s in MP3 format, or up to 24-bit / 96 kHz in uncompressed WAV format. Also, a pre-record function allows you to capture approximately two seconds of audio before you press the record button, and a low-cut filter attenuates rumble for cleaner voice recordings.

Record Direct to microSD Cards

Maximize portability by recording directly to a microSD/microSDHC card (available separately) for up to 32 GB of storage space. Select MP3 format if you really need extended time and minimal file size, or use the BWF-compliant WAV format for uncompressed audio quality and industry-standard file compatibility.

Audio Interface Functionality

Alternatively, use the F1-SP as an 2-in/2-out USB 2.0 audio interface at up to 16-bit / 48 kHz. Connect it to your computer or iPad, launch your preferred audio recording program, then enjoy the combination of the F1-SP's sonically solid front end, plus the familiarity and features of your favorite software.

Mic/Line Input with Plug-In Power

The F1-SP can accommodate mic- or line-level signals via its locking 3.5mm stereo mini-jack input. Since it supplies 2.5V plug-in power, you're free to use common condenser mics such as lavaliers, headsets, and earsets.

Zoom Mic Capsule Input

A proprietary 10-pin Zoom mic capsule input on the F1-SP accommodates Zoom's line of interchangeable capsules (available separately) in place of the standard mic/line input. With mid-side, X/Y, and stereo shotgun mic capsules to choose from, you can be ready to record music, dialog, or sound effects without carting an external microphone setup. There's even the EXH-6 input capsule (available separately) if you need dual XLR-1/4" combo inputs.

Headphone/Line Output with Volume Control

A locking 3.5mm stereo output jack with a dedicated volume control enables straightforward routing to your camera, DSLR, secondary recorder, or headphones.

Power for Hours

To keep up with the pace of on-location production, the F1-SP can be powered via two included AAA batteries or a Zoom AD-17 power adapter (available separately). Even at 24-bit / 48 kHz, you get plenty of recording time—up to 11 hours with lithium batteries or up to 6.5 hours with alkaline batteries. All-day shoots are no problem for the F1-SP.

Multifunction Micro-USB Port

A micro-USB port on the F1-SP serves several functions. Connect it to a computer for convenient data exchange, or hook it up to an iOS device (or computer) to use the F1-SP as a miniature audio interface.

Highly Visible Display

Day or night, view vital information such as audio levels, recording time, battery status, and more on the 1.25" monochrome backlit LCD. Intuitive one-touch buttons provide fast, hassle-free operations.

Low Profile and Lightweight

With its minimal profile and lightweight, the F1-SP provides a form factor that's well suited to camera-mounted configurations.

Built-In Tone Generator

The F1-SP has a built-in tone generator for calibrating audio levels between the F1-SP and a DSLR or video camera without the need for an attenuator cable.

Sound Markers for Simple File Alignment

A sound marker function allows you to record reference tones that simplify audio and video file alignment between unsynchronized devices.

Auto Lock Inhibits Accidental Interruptions

The record hold function or hold switch can be used to prevent interruptions to the recording caused by accidental button presses.

Includes Extras

Place the supplied foam windscreen over the shotgun mic to reduce wind noise and protect the capsules from moisture and dirt. A 3.5mm stereo audio cable is included for simple connection from the F1-SP's output to your DSLR camera's input.

Specifications