Zoom L-20 - UK Version

Product Information

The L-20’s combo inputs support XLR or ¼-inch connections. Channels 1-2 offer Hi-Z inputs for electric guitar or bass. Channels 17/18 and 19/20 have TS line connectivity for keyboards and other audio devices, as well as RCA inputs. The preamps on the Model 24 sound punchy and the extra +10dB gain over the L-20 is useful. Each channel has a switchable high pass filter and the first 12 have a dedicated one-knob compressor. Phantom power is toggled globally with a single switch next to the graphic EQ.

Inputs for Bigger Sound The LiveTrak L-20 is designed to mix bigger. It features 20 inputs (16 mono mic/line inputs and two stereo inputs), all with independent 3-band mid-parametric EQ. The 16 mono inputs offer stand-alone compressor control. Only USB host controllers with Intel Chipsets are supported. Operation is not guaranteed when used with USB hubs or expansion cards. It’s surprising how much bigger the Model 24 is compared to the Tascam given they have very similar I/O credentials. There’s no question it’s a more solid build than the Zoom, evidenced by the nearly 7kg weight premium. Long throw faders make a difference too, and they feel pro. Unlike the Zoom there’s no need for the fader-latching business as the Model 24 has its own rows of Aux knobs for both monitor mixes and the effect send. The LiveTrak™ L-20 is the new digital console offering everything creators need to mix, monitor, and record complex productions. With 20 discrete audio channels and six individual custom monitor mixes, it’s built for bigger, bolderarrangements. FEATURESAnd One for the House The LiveTrak L-20 features a dedicated 7th output for the FOH engineer. The sound engineer can monitor the main mix and any of the sub mixes, thus adjusting them to the musicians’ satisfaction. The L-20 includes a dedicated headphone output for front-of-house, enabling them to monitor any of the custom sub mixes as well as the master mix. The LiveTrak L-20 offers everything content creators and musicians need to mix, monitor, and record productions, at an attractive price tag. With 20 inputs (16 mono mic/line inputs and two stereo inputs) and 6 individual custom monitor mixes, you can oversee bigger, bolder arrangements.

Zoom have gone further than ever before to give you ultimate control, using a 3-band EQ,solo andmute buttons,andfader and compressor dial for all mono inputs. On top of that are 20 built-in chorus, delay and reverb effects to breathe life into the mix. Apply these to any channel using two dedicated EFX busses.Custom Scene Settings: Create and save up to nine different scenes to recall fader position, EQ settings, pan, mute, and more. Create Six Custom Monitor Mixes With six independent monitor outputs for musicians, each output can have its own custom mix, complete with effects, that can easily be switched from a powerful headphone output, to a balanced line output for stage monitors. Need a studio that can go just about anywhere with you? Then look no further. Not a let of bells and whistles, just straight up, standard board stuff that is easy to setup, and easy to use. I could sit here and write a lengthy review about what all I love about this piece of gear. But instead I thought why not let you hear how it records and to share some useful information. Then you can decide what you think about it. A seventh output for the FOH engineer means they can see the big picture, while being able to adjust for individuals when necessary. The sound engineer can monitor the main mix and any of the sub mixes, adjusting them to the musicians’ satisfaction. The “Fader Mode” buttons allow you to design custom mixes for both the master and monitor outs. For each output, easily switch between a powerful headphone output and a balanced line output for stage monitors.

EQ Control: The L-20 provides a smooth 3-band mid-parametric EQ and a variable frequency low-cut for each channel. Use the "Select" button to apply Channel Strip settings to the selected channel. To put the L-20 through its paces, I set up a mini recording sesh in my living room with a few friends: two keyboards, two vocals and an acoustic guitar. I used insert cables to connect the keyboards to the two stereo input channels (17/18 and 19/20) from the headphone outputs into the two TS line inputs on the L-20. These channels accept dual RCA inputs as well.

Warranty Info

Worth noting is that the Model 24’s high-pass filter is switched on and off whereas the Zoom’s filter has a cutoff range from 40 – 600Hz.

Headphone Output for FOH:The L-20 includes a dedicated headphone output for front-of-house, enabling them to monitor any of the custom sub mixes as well as the master mix.

Customer Reviews

Registered office: V12 Retail Finance Limited, Yorke House, Arleston Way, Solihull, B90 4LH. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Six Custom Monitor Mixes: The “Fader Mode” buttons allow you to design custom mixes for both the master and monitor outs. For each output, easily switch between a powerful headphone output and a balanced line output for stage monitors.