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Zoom F1-SP 2-Input / 2-Track Portable Field Recorder with Shotgun Microphone

BH #ZOF1SP • MFR #ZF1SP
Zoom F1-SP 2-Input / 2-Track Portable Field Recorder with Shotgun Microphone
Key Features
  • Run & Gun Video, Interviews
  • 3-Capsule Shotgun Microphone
  • Limiter & Auto-Level Prevent Distortion
  • Records Stereo MP3 or Hi-Res WAV
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.
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Zoom F1 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 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 light weight, 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.
UPC: 884354018818

Zoom F1Specs

Portable Recorder
Form Factor
Field Recorder
Primary Use Applications
Audio-for-Video
Number of Tracks
2
Number of Input Channels
2
Maximum Sampling Rate
96 kHz / 24-Bit
Microphone
Interchangeable Supercardioid Shotgun
Number of Microphone Inputs
2
Built-In Speaker
No
Display
Monochrome LCD (Backlit)
Memory Card Support
microSD, microSDHC (Up to 32 GB)
Internal Storage
No
Special Features
No
Recording
Audio File Formats
BWF, ID3v1, MP3, WAV
Sample Rates
44.1 / 48 / 96 kHz
Bit Depth
16 / 24-Bit
Bit Rates
48 to 320 kb/s
Signal Processing & FX
Auto Gain, Limiter, Low-Cut Filter
Timecode Support
No
Connectivity
Analog I/O
1x Proprietary 10-Pin Mic Capsule Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Female Unbalanced Line/Mic Input (Lockable)
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Female Unbalanced Headphone/Line Output (Lockable)
Digital I/O
1x Proprietary 10-Pin Input
Phantom Power
No
Plug-In Power
Yes, 2.5 V
System Connection
1x Micro-USB (2.0)
Audio Interface Capability
None
Wireless
No
Mobile App Compatible
No
Performance
Gain/Trim Range
Mic/Line Inputs:
-12 to +36 dB
Shotgun Mic Capsule:
Up to +50 dB
Headphone Output Power
11 mW per Channel into 32 Ohms
Impedance
Inputs:
≥2 Kilohms
Microphone Sensitivity
-39 dB/Pa
Microphone Max SPL
122 dB SPL
Power
Power Options
Battery or AC/DC Power Adapter
Battery Type
2x AAA (Not Included)
Approximate Battery Life
48 kHz/24-Bit:
6.5 Hours (Alkaline, Mono)
6 Hours (NiMH, Mono)
11 Hours (Lithium, Mono)
AC/DC Power Adapter
5 VDC at 1 A (Not Included)
Physical
Included Accessories
Microphone, Windscreen
Mounting Options
Belt Clip (with Included Hardware)
Shoe Mount (with Optional Hardware)
Dimensions
2.5 x 3.1 x 1.3" / 64 x 79.8 x 33.3 mm
Weight
4.2 oz / 120 g (without Batteries)
Packaging Info
Package Weight
1.455 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
11.5 x 8.5 x 2.9"

Zoom F1 Reviews

See any errors on this page? Let us know

Has Zoom addressed the shoddy battery door ...

Has Zoom addressed the shoddy battery door debacle on the F1 in later iterations?
Asked by: Bryan
Zoom will send a new door as needed: Zoom (631) - 542-5270
Answered by: james
Date published: 2024-06-12

Is the Zoom SSH-6 completely compatible to the ...

Is the Zoom SSH-6 completely compatible to the F1, i.e. can you use and adjust the mid-stereo record function, and if so: how do you operate it?
Asked by: Rasmus
No. You can't get REAL MS-RAW, like it was in ZOOM H5. Two tracks are the same.
Answered by: Illia
Date published: 2024-06-12

So when the microphone capsule is attached the ...

So when the microphone capsule is attached the REC LEVEL on the recorder becomes inactive - you're supposed to use the knob on the capsule. But can you set the REC LEVEL to "AUTO" when the mic capsule is attached?
Asked by: 10
Yes. Auto level will still work.
Answered by: James Cruz
Date published: 2021-03-21

Is it ok if battery life with Zoom F1 is only 2-3 ...

Is it ok if battery life with Zoom F1 is only 2-3 hours ? I tried different Alkaline and Ni-Mh Eneloop
Asked by: Dmitry
Please contact [email protected] ; there may be an issue with your device.
Answered by: Zoom Customer Support
Date published: 2020-10-10

Can this be used as an interface and record ...

Can this be used as an interface and record internally at the same time?
Asked by: Mickey
No, you can only use the F1-SP 2-Input / 2-Track Portable Field Recorder with Shotgun Microphone in either recorder mode or interface mode, but not both at the same time.
Answered by: Alex D
Date published: 2023-11-28

I'm happy with this device but I do need a ...

I'm happy with this device but I do need a deadcat. Can anyone recommend a snug deadcat for this Zoom F1 shotgun?
Asked by: David
It comes with a sponge one, I don't use it indoors but use it for protection. I think it works fine but if you are outside in the wind maybe get one.
Answered by: Ralph
Date published: 2019-05-28

Is the shotgun that comes with F1 is the same ...

Is the shotgun that comes with F1 is the same SGH-6 Shotgun capsule that zoom sells separately?
Asked by: Mauricio
Yes, it is the same.
Answered by: Zoom Customer Support
Date published: 2020-05-26

Can I power this with a V-Mount battery that has ...

Can I power this with a V-Mount battery that has USB power plug?
Asked by: Scott
Yes you can.
Answered by: Mark S
Date published: 2020-03-23
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