As a field recordist, I’ve learned that the best approach to power the Zoom F6 is the one that works best for me and my recording style.
For some field recordists, recording in one area for hours is ideal for capturing interesting overnight recordings. For others, hour-long sound walks through cities or forests are perfect for YouTube videos. But for me, I prefer a more fast-paced approach.
I love to move around quickly and capture a variety of different sounds and locations. That means I typically record for anywhere between 3 to 5 minutes (depending on the situation) and then head to a new destination – it could be a side street, a market, a train station, a harbor, or even a nearby waterfall.
By recording in this manner, I’ve been able to build a diverse library of high-quality sound effects that our clients can use for a variety of projects. Whether it’s for film, animation, or video games, I’ve found that my method works well for me and allows me to capture the sounds I want quickly and efficiently.
Choosing the best power option for Zoom F6 is crucial to ensuring seamless and uninterrupted recording sessions. After experimenting with different options, I have found that using 4x LADDA 2450 (IKEA) batteries has been the most reliable and efficient solution for me. When using mono or stereo microphones, I have been able to record for up to 4 to 5 hours without any issues, and I always carry an extra pack with me.
However, with the Rode NT-SF1, I realized that these batteries just weren’t cutting it anymore. The setup allowed me to only record on all four channels for 1 to 1.5 hours, which was far from enough. It was then that I realized it was time to upgrade my power source and find a more efficient solution to fuel my Zoom F6 but also the Sound Devices MixPre6ii and Sony PCM D100.
If you are recording with more than two channels, I recommend to use a power bank or an NP-F Lithium-ion battery.
I recently purchased the Nitecore NB10000 Gen 2 power bank, and I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed! This small and lightweight device is a must-have for any field recordist. It offers a long-lasting and reliable power source, making it a great investment for anyone looking to enhance their recording setup.
It also fits perfectly in the Ktek bag for Zoom F6 bag, and can be used to power your Zoom H6 or Tascam X8 as well.
Libby, uses a Watson NPF 7700 battery, and I was intrigued to try it out. I must say, it exceeded my expectations. I tested it by recording on all six channels and after many hours, the battery was still going strong with 4400mAh. This compact setup is perfect for my recording needs and I would definitely recommend it.
It’s important to note that the batteries come in different mAh versions, so it’s crucial to determine which one is right for you. Should you choose a power bank, Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, or regular batteries? Make sure to adjust your Zoom F6 settings to match your choice of power source.
Who would have thought a handy sound recorder in Cambodia would lead us here?
Hi there we’re Marcel and Libby and every sound on this site has been recorded by us. For nearly 7 years, we’ve been traveling around the world recording unique sounds for others to use!
If you’re curious and want to learn more about our journey traveling full-time as sound recordists you can read on here or on CNN Travel.
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