Zoom has a history of packing an impressive list of features and functionality into a small footprint and the LiveTrak L-12 digital console is no exception. Designed for the person who needs a board advanced enough to meet the demands of studio-based production and robust and versatile enough to use in live stage applications such as concerts or conferences, the LiveTrak L-12 offers everything from microphone preamps and built-in effects to multiple monitor mixes and multi-track recording.
For getting instruments and vocals routed in, there are 12 channels—eight have XLR-1/4" combo jack inputs with phantom power—while each of the two stereo channels has 1/4" and coaxial inputs. Channels One and Two Feature Hi-Z switches for use with guitars and basses, while channels Three through Eight offer -26 dB pads to reduce signal levels of loud sources. Control dynamically inconsistent performances with one-knob compression on the first eight channels and quickly make a mix via dedicated faders (eight mono and two stereo). Each channel’s SEL button selects it for channel strip processing functions such as pan, 3-band EQ, low-frequency cut, and EFX send level. The 16 adjustable built-in effects include delays and multiple reverbs.
On the output side, you’ll find balanced XLR main outs and balanced 1/4" TRS stereo monitor outputs. Additionally, there are five dedicated 1/4" TRS headphone outputs, which can be fed by independent monitor mixes. There you go, simultaneously feed a 2-track recorder, PA, and up to five mixes for different artists!
Versatile recording options make the L-12 well suited for live events and studio use. Pop in a compatible SD card and record at up to 96 kHz, then transfer the files later via USB flash drive or USB connection to a computer. An auto-record mode allows recording to start at a particular dB level and include up to two seconds of audio before that! If you’d prefer to record to your favorite DAW, connect via USB to your computer and select Audio Interface mode on the L-12’s rear panel. It will function as a 14-input/4-output USB audio interface. The integrated slate mic is ideal for communicating to your artists or recording verbal documentation such as take numbers. An internal metronome eliminates having to sacrifice an input channel for an external click track.
If you record the same artists repeatedly, or work in the same venue on a regular basis, the scene storage and recall functionality will be of great benefit. Store up to nine scenes, each includes fader levels, pan position, EQ settings, mute status, and more. Each scene can be designed for a different song, different artist, or different location.
All that power weighs less than 6 lb and occupies just a bit more space than an open magazine. Whether you play in a band, record in the studio, or run sound at a house of worship or local venue, consider adding the LiveTrak L-12 to your list of must-have tools. Feel free to stop by the B&H SuperStore or visit our website to check it out!
