Zoom LiveTrak L-8 Digital Mixer and Multitrack Recorder

The Zoom LiveTrak L-8 is an eight-channel digital mixer, multitrack recorder, and USB audio interface designed for musicians, podcasters, streamers, and small live-production setups. It brings microphone mixing, headphone monitoring, SD-card recording, phone-call integration, and computer connectivity into one compact tabletop unit. This makes it useful when a setup needs more control than a basic audio interface while remaining portable enough for sessions and location work.

Six MIC/LINE combo inputs provide the core of the L-8, with microphone preamps that support up to +54 dB of gain and +48 V phantom power. Inputs 1 and 2 can be switched to Hi-Z operation for direct guitar or bass connection, while inputs 3 through 6 include -26 dB attenuation switches for stronger line-level sources. Two additional TS line inputs provide stereo-source connectivity for keyboards, playback devices, and other line-level gear.

The onboard recorder captures up to 12 tracks simultaneously to a compatible SDHC or SDXC card, allowing individual sources and the master mix to be retained for editing later. It records WAV audio at up to 24-bit/96 kHz and supports up to 10 tracks of simultaneous playback. At 96 kHz, EQ, effects, overdubbing, and USB audio-interface operation are unavailable.

For podcasting, the dedicated TRRS smartphone connection supports call-in guests with mix-minus routing to help prevent the caller from hearing their own audio returned as an echo. Six assignable Sound Pads can play intros, stingers, sound effects, or other WAV files during a recording or broadcast. The L-8 includes 13 preset pad sounds and lets users adjust playback behavior and level for each pad.

Four headphone outputs support a main headphone mix plus three independently adjustable monitor mixes, helping hosts and performers hear suitable balances during recording. Each channel includes three-band EQ, low-cut filtering, panning, and effects-send control, while eight onboard send effects add practical ambience and processing options. The L-8 can also operate as a 12-input/4-output USB 2.0 audio interface at 44.1 or 48 kHz for DAW recording, streaming, and computer playback.

Key Features

• Eight-Channel Mixer: Six combo inputs and two TS line inputs support microphones, instruments, and playback sources.
• 12-Track SD Recording: Records individual channels and master audio directly to compatible SD cards.
• Four Headphone Outputs: Provides one main headphone mix plus three independent monitor mixes.
• TRRS Phone Connection: Connects a smartphone for call-in guests with automatic mix-minus routing.
• Assignable Sound Pads: Six pads trigger WAV sounds for intros, cues, effects, and transitions.
• USB Audio Interface: Sends 12 inputs and receives four outputs at 44.1 or 48 kHz.

Design & Installation

The LiveTrak L-8 uses a compact desktop mixer format with physical faders, gain controls, dedicated channel buttons, an LCD display, and rear SD-card access. Its layout keeps input control, monitor mixing, recording transport, scenes, effects, and Sound Pad functions within reach. The unit measures 268 mm wide by 282 mm deep by 74 mm high and weighs 1.56 kg without batteries.

Connect microphones or line sources to channels 1 through 6, with guitars and basses using the Hi-Z setting on inputs 1 or 2 when appropriate. Connect powered speakers or a PA system to the balanced XLR master outputs, then use the four headphone outputs for hosts and performers. The L-8 can run from the included AD-17 AC adapter, four AA batteries, USB bus power, or a compatible USB mobile battery; use a Class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC card for recording.