Zoom L-20 - UK Version

Product Information

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.

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.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. 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. 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. 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. in/4-out USB audio interface for your Mac, PC, or iOS device (Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter is required for iOS) 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. Custom Scene Settings: Create and save up to nine different scenes to recall fader position, EQ settings, pan, mute, and more.

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. 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 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.

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…) Physically speaking, the L‑20 is somewhat deeper and slightly taller than its smaller brother, but the same width. Given that it boasts eight more mic inputs and mixer channels, a second effects engine, additional monitor outputs and a full set of solo buttons, this means the top panel looks more crowded, with the faders much closer together. Thankfully, though, this doesn’t have much impact on the ergonomic aspects of the design, and it remains simple, intuitive and fast to use. My only quibble is that it’s hard to find space to attach a scribble strip to label the channels. 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 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. 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. 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. Registered office: V12 Retail Finance Limited, Yorke House, Arleston Way, Solihull, B90 4LH. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Sound quality is great, loads of headroom on preamps, channel tweaking is easy. Greatest of all though is the ability to have 6 individual headphone/monitor mixes.