Zoom R12 MultiTrak Portable Recorder and Control Surface

Overview

The Zoom R12 MultiTrak Portable Recorder and Control Surface is a versatile all-in-one music production workstation that combines an 8-track recorder, USB audio interface, DAW control surface, rhythm machine, and FM synthesizer into a highly portable, battery-powered design. Capable of recording up to 8 tracks at 24-bit / 44.1 kHz, the R12 allows musicians, songwriters, podcasters, and content creators to capture, edit, mix, and perform music without requiring a computer.

Featuring a bright 2.4" color touchscreen, dual XLR/TRS combo inputs with phantom power, built-in effects processing, onboard drum loops, sequence playback, and USB audio interface functionality, the R12 provides a complete production environment for recording demos, producing songs, rehearsing live sets, and creating content wherever inspiration strikes.

Core Features

• Records up to 8 tracks at 24-bit / 44.1 kHz resolution with simultaneous 2-track recording.
• Functions as a multitrack recorder, USB audio interface, and DAW control surface.
• Features a responsive 2.4" color touchscreen for recording, editing, mixing, and navigation.
• Provides two XLR/TRS combo inputs with Hi-Z support and selectable phantom power.
• Includes compressors, EQ, effects processing, tuner functions, and customizable metronome tools.
• Offers 150 onboard drum loops and Sequence Play functionality for rehearsals and live performance.
• Includes an integrated FM synthesizer with 18 instrument sounds and PCM drum kit support.
• Operates from AA batteries, USB bus power, or the included AC adapter.

Complete Mobile Recording Studio

The R12 combines recording, editing, mixing, and playback capabilities into a compact desktop unit. Musicians can record and mix complete songs directly on the device using the touchscreen interface, making it ideal for mobile production, songwriting sessions, and rehearsal spaces where a computer may not be available.

Built-In Effects and Mixing Tools

Each project benefits from integrated production tools including compressors, pan controls, 3-band EQ, limiter and gate processing, dedicated send effects, and compatibility with Zoom Guitar Lab effects. These features help shape professional-sounding mixes directly within the recorder.

Rhythm Section and Sequence Playback

With 150 preloaded drum loops, customizable click tracks, and Sequence Play functionality, the R12 can serve as a complete practice and performance companion. Create playlists of songs for rehearsals or live performances and use them as backing tracks during shows.

Audio Interface and Control Surface

Beyond standalone recording, the R12 functions as a 2-input, 4-output USB audio interface and DAW control surface via USB-C. Physical faders and transport controls provide hands-on software operation while recording, editing, and mixing on a connected computer.

Integrated FM Synthesizer

An onboard FM synthesis engine provides 18 instrument sounds plus a PCM drum kit for creating melodies, basslines, and rhythmic parts. Instruments can be played from a connected USB MIDI keyboard or programmed directly from the touchscreen interface.