Zoom F2 Ultracompact Portable Field Recorder with Lavalier Microphone
Capture Clear, Distortion-Free Dialog Instantly Say goodbye to clipping, gain and hassle; just turn on the Zoom F2 ultracompact portable field recorder and press record to capture clear, distortion-free dialog in a flash for your next video shoot, podcast, vlog or interview. Plus, the F2-BT model is available to give users app-based control and wireless timecode sync on top of all the F2 has to offer. Thanks to its 32-bit float technology, the F2 handles the softest and loudest sounds you can throw at it while avoiding distortion, maintaining low-noise performance, and freeing you from the responsibility of adjusting gain. Recordings ruined by clipped converters and poorly set preamps are things of the past. You don't even have to worry about unintentionally interrupting the F2 because a simple flick of the Hold switch will keep it recording no matter what button you press. Whereas other F-Series recorders such as the F4, F6, and F8n are centered around an audio bagready form factor for location sound recordists, the F2 is tailored for belt-mount and pocket-friendly placement directly on the subject. Even the included lavalier microphone, with its low-profile design and locking connector, is optimized for a reliable and visually discreet operation that won't distract the wearer or the videographer. With a headphone output and onboard transport controls, the F2 also allows actors to listen back to recordings to critique their own performances. From the refreshingly simple one-touch controls to the long battery life and multiple powering options, the F2 is properly equipped to serve you, regardless of your audio background. Whether you need long-duration recording for a podcast, professional audio capture for an interview, a rock-solid system for weddings, or a space-saving setup for vlogs, the F2 is ready to capture your crucial audio at any location. Plus, its operational simplicity ensures that the F2 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 or as a backup unit for added safety. After the shoot, transfer your files to a computer via USB, then use the supplied Steinberg WaveLab Cast software to edit, enhance, mix, and export your audio for the world to hear.
Capture Clear, Distortion-Free Dialog Instantly Say goodbye to clipping, gain and hassle; just turn on the Zoom F2 ultracompact portable field recorder and press record to capture clear, distortion-free dialog in a flash for your next video shoot, podcast, vlog or interview. Plus, the F2-BT model is available to give users app-based control and wireless timecode sync on top of all the F2 has to offer. Thanks to its 32-bit float technology, the F2 handles the softest and loudest sounds you can throw at it while avoiding distortion, maintaining low-noise performance, and freeing you from the responsibility of adjusting gain. Recordings ruined by clipped converters and poorly set preamps are things of the past. You don't even have to worry about unintentionally interrupting the F2 because a simple flick of the Hold switch will keep it recording no matter what button you press. Whereas other F-Series recorders such as the F4, F6, and F8n are centered around an audio bagready form factor for location sound recordists, the F2 is tailored for belt-mount and pocket-friendly placement directly on the subject. Even the included lavalier microphone, with its low-profile design and locking connector, is optimized for a reliable and visually discreet operation that won't distract the wearer or the videographer. With a headphone output and onboard transport controls, the F2 also allows actors to listen back to recordings to critique their own performances. From the refreshingly simple one-touch controls to the long battery life and multiple powering options, the F2 is properly equipped to serve you, regardless of your audio background. Whether you need long-duration recording for a podcast, professional audio capture for an interview, a rock-solid system for weddings, or a space-saving setup for vlogs, the F2 is ready to capture your crucial audio at any location. Plus, its operational simplicity ensures that the F2 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 or as a backup unit for added safety. After the shoot, transfer your files to a computer via USB, then use the supplied Steinberg WaveLab Cast software to edit, enhance, mix, and export your audio for the world to hear.
Capture Clear, Distortion-Free Dialog Instantly Say goodbye to clipping, gain and hassle; just turn on the Zoom F2 ultracompact portable field recorder and press record to capture clear, distortion-free dialog in a flash for your next video shoot, podcast, vlog or interview. Plus, the F2-BT model is available to give users app-based control and wireless timecode sync on top of all the F2 has to offer. Thanks to its 32-bit float technology, the F2 handles the softest and loudest sounds you can throw at it while avoiding distortion, maintaining low-noise performance, and freeing you from the responsibility of adjusting gain. Recordings ruined by clipped converters and poorly set preamps are things of the past. You don't even have to worry about unintentionally interrupting the F2 because a simple flick of the Hold switch will keep it recording no matter what button you press. Whereas other F-Series recorders such as the F4, F6, and F8n are centered around an audio bagready form factor for location sound recordists, the F2 is tailored for belt-mount and pocket-friendly placement directly on the subject. Even the included lavalier microphone, with its low-profile design and locking connector, is optimized for a reliable and visually discreet operation that won't distract the wearer or the videographer. With a headphone output and onboard transport controls, the F2 also allows actors to listen back to recordings to critique their own performances. From the refreshingly simple one-touch controls to the long battery life and multiple powering options, the F2 is properly equipped to serve you, regardless of your audio background. Whether you need long-duration recording for a podcast, professional audio capture for an interview, a rock-solid system for weddings, or a space-saving setup for vlogs, the F2 is ready to capture your crucial audio at any location. Plus, its operational simplicity ensures that the F2 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 or as a backup unit for added safety. After the shoot, transfer your files to a computer via USB, then use the supplied Steinberg WaveLab Cast software to edit, enhance, mix, and export your audio for the world to hear.
Capture Clear, Distortion-Free Dialog Instantly Say goodbye to clipping, gain and hassle; just turn on the Zoom F2 ultracompact portable field recorder and press record to capture clear, distortion-free dialog in a flash for your next video shoot, podcast, vlog or interview. Plus, the F2-BT model is available to give users app-based control and wireless timecode sync on top of all the F2 has to offer. Thanks to its 32-bit float technology, the F2 handles the softest and loudest sounds you can throw at it while avoiding distortion, maintaining low-noise performance, and freeing you from the responsibility of adjusting gain. Recordings ruined by clipped converters and poorly set preamps are things of the past. You don't even have to worry about unintentionally interrupting the F2 because a simple flick of the Hold switch will keep it recording no matter what button you press. Whereas other F-Series recorders such as the F4, F6, and F8n are centered around an audio bagready form factor for location sound recordists, the F2 is tailored for belt-mount and pocket-friendly placement directly on the subject. Even the included lavalier microphone, with its low-profile design and locking connector, is optimized for a reliable and visually discreet operation that won't distract the wearer or the videographer. With a headphone output and onboard transport controls, the F2 also allows actors to listen back to recordings to critique their own performances. From the refreshingly simple one-touch controls to the long battery life and multiple powering options, the F2 is properly equipped to serve you, regardless of your audio background. Whether you need long-duration recording for a podcast, professional audio capture for an interview, a rock-solid system for weddings, or a space-saving setup for vlogs, the F2 is ready to capture your crucial audio at any location. Plus, its operational simplicity ensures that the F2 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 or as a backup unit for added safety. After the shoot, transfer your files to a computer via USB, then use the supplied Steinberg WaveLab Cast software to edit, enhance, mix, and export your audio for the world to hear.
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The lowest price for Zoom F2 Ultracompact Portable Field Recorder with Lavalier Microphone right now is $169.00 at RubberMonkey.com.au, compared across 26 retailers.
The all-time low was $130.45 on 4 June 2026 — today's price is 30% above the lowest ever. It has been notably cheaper before — worth setting a price alert.
Prices last updated 9 June 2026.
Last updated at 09/06/2026 05:18:22
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originally posted on muziker.hu
I upgraded from the plain F2 to the F2-BT version. I currenly have two F2-BT units, on black and one white. I enjoy using them. I had a review here a bit further down, but that one was for the non-BT version. All that I write there is still valid, as for BT features: I use them with timecode from an Ultrasync Blue device. All is fine, but it was a bit tricky to connect both devices at the same time. I could not really make the two devices to connect with the phone for remote control though. Zoom should use different Bluetooth names. Another thing that could me made better is allowing to change from timecode or remote control functinality from a smartphone rather than just the PC: this way if you forget to set the BT mode at home, you are in trouble.A few more ... MoreI upgraded from the plain F2 to the F2-BT version. I currenly have two F2-BT units, on black and one white. I enjoy using them. I had a review here a bit further down, but that one was for the non-BT version. All that I write there is still valid, as for BT features: I use them with timecode from an Ultrasync Blue device. All is fine, but it was a bit tricky to connect both devices at the same time. I could not really make the two devices to connect with the phone for remote control though. Zoom should use different Bluetooth names. Another thing that could me made better is allowing to change from timecode or remote control functinality from a smartphone rather than just the PC: this way if you forget to set the BT mode at home, you are in trouble.A few more little annoyances that could be changed by a FW update by Zoom: ) 1) allow custom filename to contain time/date as well 2) allow playback of earlier files not ust the last one.Apart from the nuances, it is a great little tool.
originally posted on webuy.com
For less than the price of competitor products such as the Tascam DR-10L, this Zoom F2 records 32-bit audio which is great for when shooting (I don't really need to worry about levels). I haven't had much chance to edit the audio yet but it should be really easy.The record lock switch is easier to accidentally start (or, worse, stop) than on a DR-10L. I have never had any issues, however.Build quality is fine but not amazing - it's plastic. On the flipside, it's very lightweight.It has an audio out jack. This is rarely useful in its intended purpose of being left on a subject, but can be used to plug in a Rode Wireless Go transmitter, to record audio both in the Zoom and in camera at the same time.Battery life is okay, but make sure rechargeables are fully ... MoreFor less than the price of competitor products such as the Tascam DR-10L, this Zoom F2 records 32-bit audio which is great for when shooting (I don't really need to worry about levels). I haven't had much chance to edit the audio yet but it should be really easy.The record lock switch is easier to accidentally start (or, worse, stop) than on a DR-10L. I have never had any issues, however.Build quality is fine but not amazing - it's plastic. On the flipside, it's very lightweight.It has an audio out jack. This is rarely useful in its intended purpose of being left on a subject, but can be used to plug in a Rode Wireless Go transmitter, to record audio both in the Zoom and in camera at the same time.Battery life is okay, but make sure rechargeables are fully charged. I would appreciate a more comprehensive battery level indicator - maybe a row of lights which turn off in sequence as battery drains, rather than just just one which changes colour to show either full or low. This is where it loses a star, because yesterday I missed the end of a recording when it ran out of battery partway through. Luckily I was also using a shotgun mic on camera so I can manage, but it's something to be aware of.
originally posted on wexphotographic.com
Fantastic little voice recorder. Especially in scenarios where one doesn't have complete control over the environment to use a shotgun mic (or boom set up) to record a voice. 32 floating bit means not having to worry about adjusting levels. Fortunately I bought the BT version, not realising at the time that this allows it to be controlled by a phone app. Quality of voice recording is excellent. Lacking AI and voice isolation it does pick up some background sounds, which is normal. But Final Cut and Davinci Resolve (paid version) include software to isolate the voice completely. Second, it does feel a little light on the build quality and needs looking after. But for the price, this recorder is a fantastic deal and excellent hassle-free means of recording voices.
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I upgraded from the plain F2 to the F2-BT version. I currenly have two F2-BT units, on black and one white. I enjoy using them. I had a review here a bit further down, but that one was for the non-BT version. All that I write there is still valid, as for BT features: I use them with timecode from an Ultrasync Blue device. All is fine, but it was a bit tricky to connect both devices at the same time. I could not really make the two devices to connect with the phone for remote control though. Zoom should use different Bluetooth names. Another thing that could me made better is allowing to change from timecode or remote control functinality from a smartphone rather than just the PC: this way if you forget to set the BT mode at home, you are in trouble.A few more ... MoreI upgraded from the plain F2 to the F2-BT version. I currenly have two F2-BT units, on black and one white. I enjoy using them. I had a review here a bit further down, but that one was for the non-BT version. All that I write there is still valid, as for BT features: I use them with timecode from an Ultrasync Blue device. All is fine, but it was a bit tricky to connect both devices at the same time. I could not really make the two devices to connect with the phone for remote control though. Zoom should use different Bluetooth names. Another thing that could me made better is allowing to change from timecode or remote control functinality from a smartphone rather than just the PC: this way if you forget to set the BT mode at home, you are in trouble.A few more little annoyances that could be changed by a FW update by Zoom: ) 1) allow custom filename to contain time/date as well 2) allow playback of earlier files not ust the last one.Apart from the nuances, it is a great little tool.
For less than the price of competitor products such as the Tascam DR-10L, this Zoom F2 records 32-bit audio which is great for when shooting (I don't really need to worry about levels). I haven't had much chance to edit the audio yet but it should be really easy.The record lock switch is easier to accidentally start (or, worse, stop) than on a DR-10L. I have never had any issues, however.Build quality is fine but not amazing - it's plastic. On the flipside, it's very lightweight.It has an audio out jack. This is rarely useful in its intended purpose of being left on a subject, but can be used to plug in a Rode Wireless Go transmitter, to record audio both in the Zoom and in camera at the same time.Battery life is okay, but make sure rechargeables are fully ... MoreFor less than the price of competitor products such as the Tascam DR-10L, this Zoom F2 records 32-bit audio which is great for when shooting (I don't really need to worry about levels). I haven't had much chance to edit the audio yet but it should be really easy.The record lock switch is easier to accidentally start (or, worse, stop) than on a DR-10L. I have never had any issues, however.Build quality is fine but not amazing - it's plastic. On the flipside, it's very lightweight.It has an audio out jack. This is rarely useful in its intended purpose of being left on a subject, but can be used to plug in a Rode Wireless Go transmitter, to record audio both in the Zoom and in camera at the same time.Battery life is okay, but make sure rechargeables are fully charged. I would appreciate a more comprehensive battery level indicator - maybe a row of lights which turn off in sequence as battery drains, rather than just just one which changes colour to show either full or low. This is where it loses a star, because yesterday I missed the end of a recording when it ran out of battery partway through. Luckily I was also using a shotgun mic on camera so I can manage, but it's something to be aware of.
Fantastic little voice recorder. Especially in scenarios where one doesn't have complete control over the environment to use a shotgun mic (or boom set up) to record a voice. 32 floating bit means not having to worry about adjusting levels. Fortunately I bought the BT version, not realising at the time that this allows it to be controlled by a phone app. Quality of voice recording is excellent. Lacking AI and voice isolation it does pick up some background sounds, which is normal. But Final Cut and Davinci Resolve (paid version) include software to isolate the voice completely. Second, it does feel a little light on the build quality and needs looking after. But for the price, this recorder is a fantastic deal and excellent hassle-free means of recording voices.
I should start by saying that I was really, really looking forward to this product. Zoom has a fantastic reputation, and I have been very excited to have 32-bit float recording capabilities at a price-point I could afford. But, this product is sub-standard.To begin with, the battery-cover door is flimsy and does not fit well. When replacing the batteries, it takes multiple attempts to align the covering *just right* to get it back into place -- and even then, it's not a tight fit. I do have concern of the door popping open when wearing the device.Second - the software for managing settings and formatting the SD card is desktop-only. So -- if you pick up a new SD card while on assignment and want to format it -- you're out of luck. Similarly, if you want to turn ... MoreI should start by saying that I was really, really looking forward to this product. Zoom has a fantastic reputation, and I have been very excited to have 32-bit float recording capabilities at a price-point I could afford. But, this product is sub-standard.To begin with, the battery-cover door is flimsy and does not fit well. When replacing the batteries, it takes multiple attempts to align the covering *just right* to get it back into place -- and even then, it's not a tight fit. I do have concern of the door popping open when wearing the device.Second - the software for managing settings and formatting the SD card is desktop-only. So -- if you pick up a new SD card while on assignment and want to format it -- you're out of luck. Similarly, if you want to turn on low-pass, or if you need to change batteries mid-assignment and want to reset syncing laptop time/date with your device -- no go.Last, and maybe the most concerning: there have been a couple of times when I have been recording, turned the device "off" -- and the indicator lights above "input" and "off" have stayed on until I popped out the batteries. I have no idea why this is happening, but this is absolutely not the way an electronic device should work.So far, the sound quality is fine. But I really wish I had waited for a later model.
Having 32bit Float in such a tiny package with dual analogue to digital convertors is awesome. One ADC looks after the lower end the quieter sounds the other the very loud sounds when coupled seamlessly together you get a very wide dynamic range that can be recorded in 32bit float. This means you don't have to set gain levels as any sound that's too loud clipping or too quiet can be manually adjusted in post-production without raising the noise floor. The free software Audacity is 32bit Float compatible. Although it is very unlikely that you will clip your audio record on this device very loud sounds might exceed the sound pressure rating of your microphone causing audio distortion to be recorded. The microphone input can not be connected to a sound desk it is ... MoreHaving 32bit Float in such a tiny package with dual analogue to digital convertors is awesome. One ADC looks after the lower end the quieter sounds the other the very loud sounds when coupled seamlessly together you get a very wide dynamic range that can be recorded in 32bit float. This means you don't have to set gain levels as any sound that's too loud clipping or too quiet can be manually adjusted in post-production without raising the noise floor. The free software Audacity is 32bit Float compatible. Although it is very unlikely that you will clip your audio record on this device very loud sounds might exceed the sound pressure rating of your microphone causing audio distortion to be recorded. The microphone input can not be connected to a sound desk it is strictly microphone level only and cannot handle line-level input. The recorder takes a few seconds to load from boot-up be careful to monitor the record and that the red light stays illuminated once the record button is pressed. This is because if you accidentally double click the record button the device can display the record led as if recording and then after a short while stop recording. However, with the BT version of this device and the App for Android and IOS, you can control and monitor this device for peace of mind. The App will not allow you to format the SD card, download files to your phone, or directly listen to your recording via your phone. Audio files can be selected via the App and listened via the headphone jack on the Zoom F2-BT. In the non-Bluetooth version of this device, only the most recent recording can be played directly from the device. The issue of microphone caused popping noise due to a manufacturing defect has been addressed by Zoom. Any devices exhibiting this issue will be replaced by Zoom if you contact them. Audio files can be transferred using a USB to USB C cable (which isn't included) to a PC or Mac. You need to buy this cable so that the SD card can be formatted in the device using Zooms PC/Mac Software with the correct file structure and to change other system parameters such as date/time, low cut, Battery type etc. Finally, be gentle with the battery door and SD card slot door on this device. I do not work for Zoom I ordered my first Zoom F2-BT from Germany still on backorder so bought this second one from Amazon. I hope this helps but personally, I think the Zoom F2-BT is awesome and would highly recommend it.
If Zoom made this product, but with the ability to monitor audio and battery levels remotely via app, I'd easily pay $100 more for it.Pros:This thing is tiny, super light. It's smaller and lighter once you get it in your hands than the pictures and videos show. Seriously.No level setting. It's still very strange to put the mic on a subject and not set your levels. 32 bit float audio is pure magic. When I take the audio to my computer, it just magically works, the audio is clean, I can adjust the gain in post and no issues.The audio is cleaner than my Zoom H5 and Zoom H6 at their highest quality settings when tested side by side. I could raise the gain by 20db in FCPX, and the noise level is still lower. Crazy how good this sounds for how small and cheap it ... MoreIf Zoom made this product, but with the ability to monitor audio and battery levels remotely via app, I'd easily pay $100 more for it.Pros:This thing is tiny, super light. It's smaller and lighter once you get it in your hands than the pictures and videos show. Seriously.No level setting. It's still very strange to put the mic on a subject and not set your levels. 32 bit float audio is pure magic. When I take the audio to my computer, it just magically works, the audio is clean, I can adjust the gain in post and no issues.The audio is cleaner than my Zoom H5 and Zoom H6 at their highest quality settings when tested side by side. I could raise the gain by 20db in FCPX, and the noise level is still lower. Crazy how good this sounds for how small and cheap it is.Lav Mic clip: This isn't the greatest lav mic, but the little clip allows you to rotate 360 degrees, makes clipping to different shirts and such, super easy.The On lock switch: It's pretty sturdy when flipped down, gives you some peace of mind when you put this on a subject for an interview.Cons:You can't monitor the audio, aurally or visually. Sometimes when recording interviews, I admit I will take my headphones out. But I almost always occasionally look at the monitor on my camera or recorder to confirm the little red light is blinking and that I see levels going up and down. With this device, you're totally in the dark on if it's working or not, if the battery died, if the on switch got bumped, or the SD card is full, etc. But, all this said, when it works (which it has each time for me so far) the audio is incredible.Battery life indicator. I haven't gotten there yet, but I can see myself wasting a lot of AAA batteries because I fear them running out early because the meter is just a light, with no data telling me how long I have left to record.Opening the battery and Micro SD card slot. Dang, these were tough to get open, felt like the plastic would break. Thankfully, if you have a USB-C cable, once you have a Micro SD card in there, you can transfer your audio files super easy by plugging in to the easily accessible USB-C slot on the top. I can also see myself getting a set of rechargeable AAA batteries. Assuming I don't break the battery door, this will keep me sane during a long shoot, having a full battery every time.
This unit performs as advertised. However, some units, including the first one I received have microphones with faulty plugs that create a loud pop when the unit is moved around or jostled even slightly. I was unable to reproduce this problem with two other mics I have with screw in connections. I reached out to Zoom and they promptly replaced the item within two working days so only a half star deduction on this point. This is probably random and likely won’t impact most buyers.Second issue—the indicator light that shows this unit is connected to my Atomos AtomX sync via Bluetooth is the same indicator that indicates the unit is recording. When connected to Bluetooth, there is a subtle green flash in the recording light. My issue is that this indicator is hard to ... MoreThis unit performs as advertised. However, some units, including the first one I received have microphones with faulty plugs that create a loud pop when the unit is moved around or jostled even slightly. I was unable to reproduce this problem with two other mics I have with screw in connections. I reached out to Zoom and they promptly replaced the item within two working days so only a half star deduction on this point. This is probably random and likely won’t impact most buyers.Second issue—the indicator light that shows this unit is connected to my Atomos AtomX sync via Bluetooth is the same indicator that indicates the unit is recording. When connected to Bluetooth, there is a subtle green flash in the recording light. My issue is that this indicator is hard to see and may be impossible to see outdoors on a sunny day. If the unit is not properly connected, the timecode will be off. This unit would be better if there was a separate indicator for Bluetooth so it can be a little more obvious there is a connection. I suspect this is something that will not be an issue once I get used to using it but warrants mention for an objective review.Aside from these items, the F2-BT performs as advertised, syncs pretty well to timecode and has the advantages of 32 bit float. I would buy again.
I've read about some problems people have had with these units, but as of late 2022 most of those bugs seem to be worked out. The build quality feels decent. The buttons and exterior seem robust enough. The belt clip is pretty tough to manage, but we've done fine with just throwing it in a pocket on lock. The bluetooth is absolutely awesome, and it's very easy to manage the entire unit from a phone.The microphone seems decent enough and it comes with a pile of windscreens and clips and things. Totally usable out of box.There are two issues/concerns we have with the unit. The SD card door seems like it might be the first thing to break. Not a crazy issue, but I won't be surprised when it happens. I don't understand the second issue, in which the USB-C port seems ... MoreI've read about some problems people have had with these units, but as of late 2022 most of those bugs seem to be worked out. The build quality feels decent. The buttons and exterior seem robust enough. The belt clip is pretty tough to manage, but we've done fine with just throwing it in a pocket on lock. The bluetooth is absolutely awesome, and it's very easy to manage the entire unit from a phone.The microphone seems decent enough and it comes with a pile of windscreens and clips and things. Totally usable out of box.There are two issues/concerns we have with the unit. The SD card door seems like it might be the first thing to break. Not a crazy issue, but I won't be surprised when it happens. I don't understand the second issue, in which the USB-C port seems to only support very limited USB 2.0 speeds. I suspect it has to do with the unit's Read/Write interface, but copying footage via USB just isn't feasible. It works but takes crazy long for not much data at all. You'll definitely have to pull the card to backup.
I bought 5 Zoom f2's this with a better lav mics like the Deity W Lav Pro gives me a great sound for the price. I was on the fence about the BT version but not having a way to monitor the sound was a no go for the price difference. I believe that this gives a better sounding option than a wireless system. The Rode wireless go IIis nice and you can record onto the transmitter and monitor the sound at the same time. But after listening to both the sound of the zoom was the winner for me.I was never going to use the mic that came with the zoom F2 from the start. I needed a great sounding lav mic to get the sound that's usable for my work.The setup is a boom shotgun outside, a boom hypercardioid indoors and a lav mics on everyone in the shot. The audio in the ... MoreI bought 5 Zoom f2's this with a better lav mics like the Deity W Lav Pro gives me a great sound for the price. I was on the fence about the BT version but not having a way to monitor the sound was a no go for the price difference. I believe that this gives a better sounding option than a wireless system. The Rode wireless go IIis nice and you can record onto the transmitter and monitor the sound at the same time. But after listening to both the sound of the zoom was the winner for me.I was never going to use the mic that came with the zoom F2 from the start. I needed a great sounding lav mic to get the sound that's usable for my work.The setup is a boom shotgun outside, a boom hypercardioid indoors and a lav mics on everyone in the shot. The audio in the camera is for scratch only. The downside to the zoom f2 is I can't monitor it as I record but the boom mic is always monitored to assure good sound is there for the editing.After hiding the lav I have the person move around to make sure that the clothing isn't making a sound on the mic itself by monitoring the zoom before concealment on the person, and tell the if you feel a change in the mic position to let use know and we will reattach it.Pros. 32 bit Ease of use Small size No wireless drop off.Cons. No way of monitoring unless you connect it to a wireless system the mic that comes with it could be better.The mic that comes with the zoom will work fine for most people.
Not having to worry about my audio levels has increased my production capability many times over. I wish there was a wireless version for in-camera sync vs post production synchronization, but the small amount of time it takes to sync in Premiere is way less than needing to reshoot for blown audio. Adjusting the gain in post is super easy and still comes out clean. The F2 desktop software is easy to use. My only complaint is the windjammer isn't super-great at staying on the mic. It's fine once the mic is in place, but everything up to that point requires a great deal of care to not lose it. I'd love to see this unit upgraded with a small digital display for actual battery life and recording time remaining, but even without those I'd buy it again if needed.
