Overview
The Zoom R20 Portable Multitrack Recorder is a powerful all-in-one recording, editing, and mixing workstation designed for songwriters, bands, producers, and content creators. Combining a DAW-inspired touchscreen workflow with dedicated hardware controls, the R20 enables users to record up to 16 tracks, capture eight tracks simultaneously, and complete entire productions without relying on a computer.
Equipped with eight microphone preamps, built-in effects processing, drum loops, synthesizer sounds, USB audio interface functionality, and support for SDHC/SDXC media up to 1 TB, the R20 serves as a comprehensive production hub for studio recording, rehearsals, songwriting, podcast production, and mobile music creation.
Core Features
- Records up to 16 tracks with simultaneous recording of up to eight inputs.
- Functions as an 8-input, 4-output USB audio interface for computer-based production.
- Features eight microphone preamps with Zoom's lowest-noise multitrack recorder design.
- Provides a large 4.3" color touchscreen with gesture-based editing controls.
- Includes compressors, EQ, gating, modulation, delay, and reverb effects.
- Offers 150 rhythm patterns and 18 built-in synthesizer sounds.
- Supports MIDI keyboard connectivity and MIDI file import.
- Records directly to SDHC and SDXC cards up to 1 TB capacity.
16-Track Production Environment
The R20 combines multitrack recording, editing, and mixing into a streamlined workflow inspired by modern DAWs. Users can cut, copy, combine, loop, and arrange tracks directly from the touchscreen interface while recording up to eight sources simultaneously and playing back up to sixteen tracks.
Touchscreen Workflow and Color-Coded Controls
A responsive 4.3" color touchscreen supports familiar gestures such as drag, swipe, pinch, and drop for intuitive project navigation and editing. Color-coded faders, gain controls, and track regions make it easy to identify channels and maintain an efficient workflow during recording and mixing sessions.
Built-In Effects and Instruments
The R20 includes professional processing tools such as EQ, compression, limiting, gating, modulation effects, delay, and reverb. Integrated rhythm accompaniment features 150 drum patterns across multiple genres, while 18 built-in synthesizer sounds can be played from a connected MIDI keyboard or programmed directly from the touchscreen.
Studio and Computer Integration
In addition to standalone operation, the R20 functions as an 8-input, 4-output USB audio interface for recording directly into compatible DAWs. Support for MIDI file import, USB MIDI keyboard connectivity, SD card recording, and optional Bluetooth remote control expands the recorder's flexibility for both studio and mobile production environments.
Recording
| Total Tracks | 16 |
| Simultaneous Recording | 8 Tracks |
| Simultaneous Playback | 16 Tracks |
| Maximum Recording Resolution | 24-Bit / 44.1 kHz |
| Audio File Format | BWF |
General
| Form Factor | Desktop |
| Display | 10.9 cm Color LCD Touchscreen |
| Microphone Inputs | 8 |
| Input Gain Control | 8x Knob |
| Headphone Mixes | 1x Master |
| USB Audio Interface | 8 Inputs / 4 Outputs |
| Built-In Microphone | No |
Signal Processing
| Gain Range | +6 to +50 dB |
| EQ | 3-Band EQ per Channel |
| EQ Parameters | High: ±12 dB at 10 kHz Mid: ±12 dB at 2.5 kHz Low: ±12 dB at 100 Hz |
| Dynamics Processing | Compressor, Limiter, Gate |
| Built-In Effects | Distortion Auto-Wah Chorus Chorus + Reverb ADT Delay Reverb |
Inputs/Outputs
| Analog Audio Inputs | 1x Combo XLR / 6.35 mm TRS Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input 1x Combo XLR / 6.35 mm TRS Mic/Line Input 6x XLR 3-Pin Mic/Line Inputs |
| Analog Audio Outputs | 2x 6.35 mm TRS Balanced Line Outputs |
| Headphone Output | 1x 6.35 mm Unbalanced Headphone Output |
| Phantom Power | 48 V, Selectable on Inputs 5-8 |
| USB Connections | 1x USB-C (Audio Interface) 1x USB-A (Remote Control) |
| Digital Audio I/O | No |
| MIDI I/O | No |
| Wireless | Bluetooth via Optional Adapter |
Performance
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz (-1 dB) |
| Maximum Input Level | Mic/Line Inputs: +4 dBu for 0 dBFS |
| Maximum Output Level | Line Outputs: +14 dBu |
| Headphone Output Power | 20 mW per Channel into 32 Ohms |
| Impedance | XLR Mic Inputs: 3.9 kΩ 6.35 mm Line Inputs: 5.3 kΩ Hi-Z Input: 1 MΩ Line Outputs: 200 Ohms Headphone Output: 33 Ohms |
| EIN | ≤ -121 dBu A-Weighted |
Rhythm and Synth
| Rhythm Patterns | 150 |
| Genres | 30 |
| Synth Sounds | 18 |
| MIDI Support | MIDI Keyboard Input MIDI File Import |
Storage
| Supported Media | SDHC, SDXC |
| Card Slot | 1x SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Supported Capacity | SDHC: 4 GB to 32 GB SDXC: 64 GB to 1 TB |
Compatibility
| Operating System Support | Windows macOS |
| Mobile Device Support | iPad |
Power
| Power Source | Included AC Adapter |
| AC/DC Adapter | 12 VDC at 2 A |
| Power Consumption | 11 W Maximum |
Physical
| Dimensions | 37.8 x 20.6 x 5.8 cm |
| Weight | 1.3 kg |
What's Included
- Zoom R20 Portable Multitrack Recorder
- ZAD-1220 AC Adapter
- Barcode: 71922
- Supplier Code: R20