Zoom LiveTrak L-6

On the far left, two XLR combo sockets accept both XLR and jack cables, with a shared 48V phantom power switch for condenser microphones. Each channel's rotary encoder is assigned via the column of function buttons – pan, send levels, or EQ – giving direct access without menu navigation. Inputs 3 and 4 operate as stereo channels with dual jack sockets; the Mono function splits them into two independent mono signals when needed. Channels 5 and 6 offer an additional USB return option, routing signals from a connected computer directly into the mixer. Via USB-C, the L-6 functions as a 12-in/4-out audio interface at 48kHz, with 32-bit float or 24-bit fixed options. A master bus compressor with automatic make-up gain can be engaged independently of the multitrack recording, useful for taming the dynamic range during live streaming or performance without affecting the recorded tracks.

Founded in 1983, the Japanese company Zoom manufactures a variety of audio equipment, including a range of portable "handy" recorders as well as multi-effects processors, effects pedals, drum machines, and samplers. Over the past thirty years, the company has built a reputation for producing innovative yet affordable products based on original microchip designs. Since the Zoom-9002 (an ultra-compact multi-effects processor that can be attached to a guitar strap) was introduced in 1990, Zoom has become one of the leaders in digital audio processing.