Zoom Previews MRS-8 Digital Multitrack at NAMM

MRS-8 Prototype (Click for a close-up)

Zoom is introducing a full-featured new compact eight-track recorder, the MRS-8. The MRS-8 has a fully programmable Drum/Bass Machine with touch-sensitive pads, and Zoom sampled drum sounds.

Beyond the drums, the MRS-8 has an array of instrument, vocal and mastering effects and extensive digital editing capabilities. With 8 physical tracks, each with 10 Virtual-takes, you have up to 80 recording tracks to play with. The MRS-8 has 2-track simultaneous recording at an optional non-compressed, 16 bit linear, 44.1 sampling rate with 24-bit AD/DA resolution. It records to SD memory cards, currently compatible up to 1 GB. The MRS-8 comes with a 128MB SD card.

The unit comes loaded with Zoom's multi-effects including 8 algorithms and 100 effect types. It also includes BPM sync and ARRM effects. Seamless Digital Track Editing functions include COPY, ERASE, TRIM, FADE I/O, and REVERSE as well as Auto punch-in/out and Track bounce functions.

The MRS-8 offers simultaneous playback of 8 audio tracks plus the drum and bass tracks. A Sequence Play function allows a number of songs to be played back continuously. A Dedicated Master Track is built-in, for mix-down, so there is no need for an external master recorder. Connection-wise, the MRS-8 has everything you need including a 1/4-inch Hi-Z input for Guitar, an XLR combo jack for an external microphone or line level signal, stereo RCA master outputs, headphone out, and MIDI out so MIDI Time Code or MIDI clock can be sent for synchronizing with external devices. Also, the MRS-8 comes with a front panel mini-condenser microphone.

The MRS-8 is a complete compact recording studio, great for laying down ideas or complete multi-track CD quality music. A great traveling recorder, it's about the size of a laptop computer and runs on 4 AA batteries (or AC Power). The MRS-8 has an estimated street price of $349.