Zoom L-20 - UK Version

Product Information

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.

I bought this to use in a rehearsal room with a band. We are a four piece but use drums, 2 guitars, bass, 3 synths (stereo),laptop and 3 vocals so needed lots of inputs. If the rear panel looks familiar, that’s because it’s almost identical to that of the LiveTrak L‑12, but it also caters for an optional Bluetooth dongle for remote control via iOS devices. The attached media is a 3 piece, drums, guitar, bass, and vocals. We shut down our cabs and PA except for mic'ing the guitar cab and used headphones for monitoring, the L-20 has 6 outputs for that, plus a master. On the other hand, the Zoom LiveTrak L-20 feels more at home in a studio than on stage. With six stereo headphone outputs and a built-in metronome, it seems the perfect tool for capturing band performances in a controlled environment. Most of the effects are the same as on the L‑12, but they are divided between two independent engines rather than one, each with its own stereo return. EFX1 presents more generic reverb treatments, while EFX2 offers additional hall, room and vocal algorithms plus several delay and chorus effects. When I reviewed the L‑12, the effects were audible only on the main outputs, but Zoom have since issued a firmware update that allows them to be heard at the monitor outs too, and this is also the case on the L‑20. Now Hear This (And This… And This…)The L-20 has six monitor outputs, and each output can have its own unique, custom mix with effects. These can be switched from a powerful headphone output, to a balanced line output for stage monitors. Custom Scene Settings: Create and save up to nine different scenes to recall fader position, EQ settings, pan, mute, and more. 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. 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.

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.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.

Another useful feature of the Zoom is the ability to store and recall fader scenes — perfect when jumping between mixing and recording levels, for example. 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. 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. The Zoom LiveTrak L-20 allows total control by using a 3-band EQ, fader and compressor dial for all mono inputs, and solo and mute buttons. There are also 20 built-in chorus, delay and reverb effects to get the right sound. These can be applied to any channel using two EFX busses. Con: Sure, it's a bit plasticy and the knobs aren't pro quality but sitting in a bandroom with the occasional trip into the outside world it is easily robust enough to last a long time.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. Broad Connectivity: 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. 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.