registered trademarks in this document are for identiﬁcation purposes only and are not intended to infringe on the copyrights of their respective owners.

Proper display is not possible on grayscale devices.

Table of Contents

Need help?

Do you have a question about the R20 and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Dick Gerritsen

February 24, 2025

Is there a dutch manual for zoom R20

Summary of Contents for Zoom R20

Page 1 Operation Manual You must read the Usage and Safety Precautions before use. ©2021 ZOOM CORPORATION Copying or reprinting this manual in part or in whole without permission is prohibited. Product names, registered trademarks and company names in this document are the property of their respective companies. All trademarks and registered trademarks in this document are for identiﬁcation purposes only and are not intended to infringe on the copyrights of their respective owners.
Page 2: Notes About This Operation Manual
• Recording from copyrighted sources, including CDs, records, tapes, live performances, video works and broadcasts, without permission of the copyright holder for any purpose other than personal use is prohibited by law. Zoom Corporation will not assume any responsibility related to infringements of copyrights.
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Contents Notes about this Operation Manual........................2 R20 overview................................6 Terms used in this manual............................6 Functions of parts................................7 Connection example..............................11 Touchscreen display..............................13 Home Screen overview.............................13 Control Bar overview..............................17 Touchscreen operation overview..........................19 Making preparations..............................22 Inserting SD cards..............................22 Connecting output devices............................
Page 4 Editing notes (synth regions)...........................97 Editing tracks................................102 Using markers................................108 Mixing projects................................ 114 Checking track levels.............................. 114 Muting tracks................................116 Listening to selected tracks only (soloing)......................117 Adjusting volume levels............................118 Switching controlled tracks............................120 Adjusting the panning, EQ and eﬀects of tracks....................121 Mixing down................................122 Managing projects..............................123 SD card folder and ﬁle structure..........................123...
Page 5 MIDI implementation chart........................... 166 Speciﬁcations................................167...
Page 6: R20 Overview
Project The R20 manages recording and playback data for a single song in a unit called a project. The audio ﬁles assigned to tracks and settings, including for panning and faders, are saved in project ﬁles. Up to 1000 projects can be created on a single card.
Page 7: Functions Of Parts
Functions of parts ❶ Input jacks Use INPUTS 1 and 2 to connect mics, keyboards and guitars. These support XLR and 1/4-inch phone (unbalanced) plugs. Use INPUTS 3–8 to connect mics and keyboards. These support XLR plugs. ❷ Hi-Z switch Turn Hi-Z on/oﬀ...
Page 8 ❾ Other buttons • This turns the metronome on/oﬀ. The indicator lights when it is on. • Press to skip back one bar. Press and hold to search backward. • Press to skip forward one bar. Press and hold to search forward. •...
Page 9 Side ❶ REMOTE jack Connect a ZOOM BTA-1 or other dedicated wireless adapter here. ❷ USB (Type-C) port Using this, projects can be copied to and imported from USB ﬂash drives. USB MIDI keyboards can also be connected and used to play synth sounds.
Page 10 ❶ POWER switch This turns the R20 on and oﬀ. When switched to OFF, the current mixer settings are automatically saved in the R20 and in the settings ﬁle in the project folder on the SD card. ❷ DC 12V AC adapter connector Connect the dedicated AC adapter (ZOOM ZAD-1220) here.
Page 11: Connection Example
Connection example This is an example of connections to record a band in a studio.
Page 12 When directly connecting a guitar or bass with passive pickups, use INPUT 1 and set to ON. When connecting a guitar or bass with active pickups or through an eﬀect to the R20, use either INPUT 1 or 2. In this case, set to OFF when connecting to INPUT 1.
Page 13: Touchscreen Display
This section explains various screens shown on the R20. Home Screen overview This appears on the touchscreen when the R20 power is turned on. The Home Screen has two views: Track View and Level Meter View. Switch between them as needed during operation.
Page 14 Slide the Track Headers right to open the mixer. When the mixer is open, slide the Track Headers left to close it. Use the mixer to check the mute (→ tracks), solo (→ Muting Listening to selected tracks only (soloing)) and volume settings of each track.
Page 15 • Slide up, down, left or right: Do this to show tracks that were hidden and to change the part of the timeline that is visible.
Page 16 Level Meter View Screen This screen shows the level meters and faders for all tracks. This screen makes observing the volume of all tracks easy, so it is useful for recording multiple channels simultaneously and balancing the mix. ❶ Control Bar This shows the recording/playback position and various buttons.
Page 17: Control Bar Overview
Control Bar overview The Control Bar is shown at the top of the Track View Screen and Level Meter View Screen. Along with showing the current bar position, tempo and time signature, other features include buttons for various settings. Track View Screen Level Meter View Screen ❶...
Page 18 This opens the Project Settings Screen. ⓫ Ruler This shows bars, beats, the recording/playback header and markers. Pinch in/out horizontally to zoom out/in on the timeline. ⓬ Recording/playback Header This shows the recording/playback position During recording, it appears red. During playback, drag this horizontally to change the playback position.
Page 19: Touchscreen Operation Overview
Touchscreen operation overview Operations on various screens Tap, swipe, slide and pinch in/out to operate the touchscreen. Tap: Select Tap a value you want to set. The current setting value is shown in blue. Tap: Change settings to change settings. ...
Page 20 Slide: Scroll through items While touching the display, slide vertically to scroll. Pinch in/out: Zoom out/in on the timeline Pinch in Pinch out Returning to the previous screen/Home Screen (Track View Screen/Level Meter View Screen) at the top left of the screen.
Page 21 Character Input Screen overview The Character Input Screen appears on the touchscreen to enable ﬁle names to be input and edited, for example. Tap the keyboard to input characters. ❶ Character input area A cursor shows the input position. ❷ Input characters ❸...
Page 22: Making Preparations
• When inserting an SD card, be sure to insert the correct end with the top side up. • Recording and playback are not possible when an SD card is not loaded in the R20. • After purchasing a new SD card, always format it using the R20 to maximize performance. (→...
Page 23: Connecting Output Devices
Connecting output devices Powered monitors and headphones can be connected for checking the sound. to adjust the headphone volume. NOTE: Turn power oﬀ before connecting powered monitors. HINT: The OUTPUT jacks support balanced output.
Page 24: Connecting The Ac Adapter
Connecting the AC adapter Connect the cable of the dedicated AC adapter (ZAD-1220) to the DC 12V AC adapter connector and tighten the screw lock to secure it. Then, plug the AC adapter into an outlet. NOTE: Tighten until the screw lock cannot be turned more. Power will not be supplied if this is not tightened completely.
Page 25: Turning The Power On/Off
The ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase, as well as after the R20 has been reset to factory defaults, the Date/Time Setting Screen will open. Set the date and time when it does. (→...
Page 26 Turning the power oﬀ Minimize the volume of output devices connected to the R20. Turn oﬀ the output devices connected to the R20. to OFF. The touchscreen display will turn oﬀ.
Page 27: Setting The Date And Time (First Time Starting Up)
Setting the date and time (ﬁrst time starting up) The ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase, set the date and time when the Date/Time Setting Screen opens. This is used to add the date and time to recorded ﬁles. to set the date and time.
Page 28 HINT: • The date and time setting can also be changed later from the Menu Screen (→ Setting the date and time).
Page 29: Opening Projects
Opening projects The R20 saves and manages recording and playback data in units called projects. A list of projects is shown on the Projects Screen. Tap a project to select it for recording, playback and editing. New projects can also be created on the Projects Screen.
Page 30: Creating New Projects
Creating new projects Templates that already have rhythm loops included can be selected for various genres to create projects that make starting a music project easy. Projects can also be made by ﬁrst setting the tempo, time signature and bit depth. NOTE: •...
Page 31 Tap “Create”. This will create a new project and open the Track View Screen, showing the rhythm loop for the selected genre. HINT: • Projects will be named “ZOOM0001”– “ZOOM9999”. Project names can be changed later. (→ Changing project names) •...
Page 32 Tap “Details”. Tapping “Create” will create a project without changing settings. Change the project settings by tapping and sliding. ❶ Tempo This changes the setting of the tempo used for the entire song (40.0–250.0). (→ Changing project tempos) ❷ Time Signature This changes the setting of the time signature used for the entire song.
Page 33 Tap “Create”. This will create a new project with the changed settings, and open the Home Screen. HINT: Projects will be named “ZOOM0001”– “ZOOM9999”. Project names can be changed later. (→ Changing project names)
Page 34: Opening A Project
Opening a project Tap “Projects” on the Projects Screen. Tap the desired project to select it. The selected project will be framed in blue. HINT: (project name order) or (date and time used order) to change the order shown. Tap “Open”. The project selected on the Home Screen will be shown.
Page 35: Changing Project Settings
Changing project settings Various project settings can be made on the Project Settings Screen. Settings are saved separately with each project. Opening the Project Settings Screen on the Home Screen (Track View Screen/Level Meter View Screen). Track View Screen Level Meter View Screen This opens the Project Settings Screen.
Page 36: Changing Project Tempos
Changing project tempos This changes the tempo used for the entire song. Slide the Tempo slider or tap on the Project Settings Screen. HINT: • This can be set from 40.0–250.0. • The tempo set here will be shared by the eﬀects. •...
Page 37: Changing Project Time Signatures
Changing project time signatures This changes the setting of the time signature used for the entire song. Tap the desired “Time Signature” setting on the Project Settings Screen. HINT: • The options are 4/4, 3/4 and 6/8. • Tapping the tempo/time signature in the Control Bar will also open the Time Signature setting of the Project Settings Screen.
Page 38: Setting The Metronome
Setting the metronome The R20 has a metronome with a precount function. This metronome, which can function during recording and playback, has switchable sounds and precount on and oﬀ settings. Moreover, the metronome volume can be adjusted for diﬀerent outputs, for example, to make the sound loud only in headphones.
Page 39 Setting the precount A metronome count can be sounded before starting recording. On the Project Settings Screen, tap “On” or “Oﬀ” for “Precount”. Setting Explanation Oﬀ This turns oﬀ the precount. This turns on the precount. HINT: • The number of beats in the pre-count depends on the time signature setting (→ Changing project time signatures).
Page 40 Changing the metronome sound The metronome sound can be set to the preferred one. Tap the desired “Sound” option on the Project Settings Screen. Setting Explanation Bell Metronome sound (with bell on accents) Click Metronome sound (click only) Stick Drumsticks tapping sound Cowbell Cowbell sound Hi-Q...
Page 41 Adjusting the metronome sound volume output from PHONES and OUTPUT jacks Slide the “Level for Phones” and “Level for Output” sliders or tap on the Project Settings Screen. Setting Explanation Level for Phones This adjusts the volume for the PHONES output jack. Level for Output This adjusts the volume for the OUTPUT jacks.
Page 42: Changing The Snap Setting
Changing the snap setting The snap setting used for the entire project can be changed. If this is “On”, notes and regions will be aligned to ruler increments when moved (→ Control Bar overview). On the Project Settings Screen, tap “On” or “Oﬀ” for “Snap”. Setting Explanation Oﬀ...
Page 43: Recording
Recording Recording process • Insert an SD card (→ Inserting SD cards) • Connect mics, instruments and other sources to inputs (→ Connecting input devices) Preparation before • Turn the power on (→ Turning the power recording • Create a new project (→ projects) or open a project (→...
Page 44: Making Input Settings
Making input settings Connecting input devices Connect the devices that you want to record. Mics, guitars, basses, synthesizers and other instruments can be connected. ■ Connecting mics Connect dynamic mics to INPUT 1–8 and condenser mics to INPUT 5–8 using mic cables with XLR connectors.
Page 45 ■ Connecting guitars and basses Guitars, basses, synthesizers and other electronic instruments can be connected to INPUT 1 and 2 using cables with standard 1/4-inch plugs. When directly connecting a guitar or bass with passive pickups, use INPUT 1 and set to ON.
Page 46 Enabling tracks for recording Tracks can be selected for recording. • When an audio track is selected, the sound input through the corresponding INPUT jack will be recorded. • When a synthesizer track is selected, MIDI data input using a MIDI keyboard, for example, will be recorded.
Page 47 HINT: • Track groups 1–8 and 9–16 can be switched and enabled for recording. Tap to switch track groups. When , INPUT 1–8 inputs will be recorded to tracks 9–16. (Setting for the switched tracks is necessary.) • Two adjacent tracks can be set to be a stereo track (→ Enabling stereo linking).
Page 48 Adjusting input levels The levels of signals input to the R20 can be adjusted. Turn for the selected tracks to adjust their input levels. Adjust them so that their indicators do not light. HINT: • If the sound distorts even after lowering the input level, try changing mic positions and adjusting the output levels of connected devices.
Page 49: Making Track Settings
Sound input through an INPUT jack is recorded and played back. WAV ﬁles can also be imported from SD cards and USB ﬂash drives Audio track and placed as regions. Rhythm loops included in the R20 can be placed and played back. (→ Using internal rhythm loops) Rhythm track MIDI data can be input and SMF ﬁles from SD cards and USB ﬂash...
Page 50 NOTE: Each project can only have one set synthesizer track. If a synthesizer track already exists and has a region, a new synthesizer track cannot be set.
Page 51 Opening Track Settings Screens On Track Settings Screens, EQ, dynamic (Comp/Limiter/Gate) eﬀects and send eﬀects can be adjusted, and monitor panning and stereo links can be set. Double-tap the header for the track that you want to set. Tap “Track Settings”. This opens the Track Settings Screen.
Page 52 Adjusting monitor panning The left–right panning of each track can be adjusted when monitoring input signals through headphones or powered monitors. On a Track Settings Screen (→ Opening Track Settings Screens), slide the Pan slider or tap NOTE: • The setting range is L100 (left) – Center – R100 (right). •...
Page 53 Adjusting EQ The amount of boost/cut of each frequency band can be adjusted. On a Track Settings Screen (→ Opening Track Settings Screens), slide the EQ Low, Middle and High sliders or tap ■ High This adjusts the boost/cut of high-frequency equalization. •...
Page 54 Enabling stereo linking Two adjacent tracks (1 and 2 or 3 and 4, for example) can be set as a stereo track. This enables those inputs to be handled as a stereo sound. This will record the tracks as stereo data, which is convenient when editing, for example (Stereo Link function).
Page 55 Using the Comp/Limiter/Gate function The volume can be adjusted suitably according to input signal levels and unwanted noise can be cut, making the sound clearer. • Comp The compressor reduces level diﬀerences between loud and quiet sounds, making the sound clearer. •...
Page 56 Parameter Explanation Attack Time Comp/Limiter: This adjusts the speed that the eﬀect is activated after the input signal exceeds the threshold level. Gate: This adjusts the speed that the eﬀect is deactivated after the input signal exceeds the threshold level. Release Time Comp/Limiter: This adjusts how quickly the eﬀect is deactivated after the input signal goes below the threshold...
Page 57 Slide the Threshold slider or tap to adjust the threshold level. HINT: This can be set from −16 to −2 dBFS for the compressor and limiter. This can be set from −80 to −2 dBFS for the noise gate. Slide the Attack Time slider or tap to adjust the attack time.
Page 58: Using Effects
Using eﬀects The R20 has eﬀects that are equivalent to those in ZOOM multi-eﬀects processors. Patch memories that contain up to three eﬀects can be selected. By selecting patch memories, a variety of eﬀects can be applied to instruments, voices and other sound sources.
Page 59 On the Eﬀect Screen, select a patch memory (①), and tap (②). This reopens the Track Settings Screen. HINT: Editing patch memories for details about how to edit patch memories. Slide the Send Level slider or tap to adjust the send level. ...
Page 60 Using insert eﬀects Tap a Track Header on the Track View Screen and select an audio track to assign the insert eﬀect to it. NOTE: Eﬀects can only be used on audio tracks. in the Control Bar. On the Eﬀect Screen, select a patch memory (①), and tap (②).
Page 61: Editing Patch Memories
Editing patch memories Opening the patch memory Edit Screen On the Eﬀect Screen, tap for the patch memory you want to edit. This opens the patch memory Edit Screen. ❶ Eﬀects used Tap these to adjust the parameters of the eﬀects. Adjusting eﬀect parameters ❷...
Page 62 ❼ Patch memory name edit button Tap this to open the Character Input Screen. See Character Input Screen overview for editing procedures. ❽ Select next patch memory HINT: The content of edited patch memories will be saved automatically. Turning patch memories on/oﬀ Tap “On”...
Page 63 Adjusting eﬀect parameters Tap the eﬀect you want to edit on the patch memory Edit Screen (→ Opening the patch memory Edit Screen). This opens the Eﬀect Settings Screen. Adjust the eﬀect. ❶ Return to the patch memory Edit Screen ❷...
Page 64 Opening the patch memory Edit Screen). This opens a patch memory list. Tap the name of the copy destination patch memory. Tap “Execute”. NOTE: Patch memories are not saved in projects. 50 patch memories can be saved as R20 settings.
Page 65 Changing patch memory names on the patch memory Edit Screen (→ Opening the patch memory Edit Screen). This opens the Character Input Screen. Input the patch memory name. Character Input Screen overview for how to input characters. When “Done” appears, tap “Close”. This changes the patch memory name and returns to the previous screen.
Page 66 Changing patch memory levels On the patch memory Edit Screen (→ Opening the patch memory Edit Screen), slide the “Patch Level” slider or tap NOTE: This can be set from 0 to 120.
Page 67 Using the tuner Using the tuner function, you can tune guitars and other instruments. on the patch memory Edit Screen (→ Opening the patch memory Edit Screen). This opens the Tuner Screen. Press on the track that corresponds to the INPUT to which the guitar, bass or other instrument you want to tune is connected.
Page 68 ■ Selecting the tuner type on the Tuner Screen (→ Using the tuner). Display Explanation String number/note Chromatic The name of the nearest note (in – – – – – – – semitones) and the amount of detuning are shown. Guitar Standard guitar tuning with a 7th string...
Page 69 ■ Setting the standard pitch of the tuner on the Tuner Screen (→ Using the tuner). NOTE: This can be set from 435Hz to 445Hz. ■ Using ﬂat tunings All strings can be tuned down from standard tuning by 1–3 semitones. on the Tuner Screen (→...
Page 70: Recording
Recording Press when the Track View Screen or Level Meter View Screen is open. This starts recording from the current playback position. The indicator lights during recording. Pressing when a screen other than the Track View Screen or Level Meter View Screen is open will open one of those screens.
Page 71: Using Internal Rhythm Loops
Using internal rhythm loops The R20 includes rhythm loops for various genres. By setting the track type to rhythm, drum patterns and other rhythm loops can be assigned to it as desired and played back. Tap the track on which you want to place a rhythm loop on the Track View Screen.
Page 72 to preview rhythm loops. The selected rhythm loop will play back. again to stop playback. for the rhythm loop you want to add. The selected rhythm will be added to the rhythm track. NOTE: • The rhythm loop will be added to the selected track from the playback header.
Page 73 ■ Rhythm loops The R20 has Intro, Verse, Bridge, Chorus and Outro sections for the following rhythm loops. Genre Genre 8th Note Beats Bounce Pop 16th Note Beats Modern R&B 4th Note Beats Neo Soul Pop Rock Modern 80's Retro Rock...
Page 74: Using The Synthesizer
Using the synthesizer The R20 includes various synthesizer sound types. By connecting a USB MIDI keyboard (sold separately) to the R20, the keyboard can be played to record the selected synthesizer sound. Selecting the synth sound On the Track View Screen, tap the track you want to record the synth on.
Page 75 • The range is C0–G8. • When notes are output, the red indicators above the keyboard light. Tap a synth name to select it. The tapped synth will be selected. The R20 has the following synth sounds. E.Piano Organ2 Slap Bass Brass2 Bright E.P...
Page 76: Recording
Recording Referring to Using MIDI keyboards, connect a midi keyboard to the R20. Press for the synth track so that it lights red. Press Recording will start from the current playback position. Play the MIDI keyboard. The MIDI keyboard performance will be recorded as MIDI data on the synth track.
Page 77: Playing Projects
• Adjust track volume: Move channel fader • Adjust master track volume: Move MASTER channel fader Touchscreen operations during playback • Zoom in/out horizontally: Pinch in horizontally: Shorten the timeline Pinch out horizontally: Lengthen the timeline display display (This enables showing many bars at the same (This enables displaying more detail.)
Page 78 • Move playback position: Slide playback header left/right or tap the ruler...
Page 79: Editing Projects
Editing projects Recorded audio data and notes can be edited by region. For example, regions can be moved, deleted, copied, pasted, looped and split. With waveform editing, audio regions can be stretched without changing pitch and unnecessary parts can be deleted. With MIDI note editing, notes can be added and deleted as well as be adjusted for length and velocity, for example.
Page 80 Looping regions Regions can be looped (played back repeatedly). On the Track View Screen, tap the region you want to loop. This highlights the selected region. Drag the right edge of the region. Dragging right will increase the number of loops, while dragging left will decrease the number.
Page 81 Creating empty synth track regions (synth track only) Regions can be created for adding MIDI notes manually. (→ Editing notes (synth regions)) On the Track View Screen, double-tap an area with no region on the synth track. The Option Menu will open at the top of the screen. Tap “Create Region”.
Page 82 Loading WAV ﬁles as regions WAV ﬁles on SD cards and USB ﬂash drives can be loaded into projects. NOTE: Files with the following formats can be loaded. • WAV ﬁles: Either 44.1kHz/16-bit or 44.1kHz/24-bit according to the project setting Copy the ﬁles that you want to load onto the SD card or USB ﬂash drive in advance.
Page 83 Tap “Add Audio File”. Tap “SD Card” to load from an SD card, or tap “USB Memory” to load from a USB ﬂash drive. HINT: When loading from a USB ﬂash drive, connect it to the USB port. (→ Connecting USB ﬂash drives) to preview the ﬁle you want to load.
Page 84 for the ﬁle you want to load. NOTE: • An error message will appear if it cannot be loaded. Select a diﬀerent ﬁle. • Loading is not possible if the maximum number of regions in the project would be exceeded. - Total number of audio and rhythm regions: 50 - Synth regions: 80 Input the ﬁle name of the loaded WAV ﬁle.
Page 85 Loading SMF ﬁles as regions SMF ﬁles on SD cards and USB ﬂash drives can be loaded into projects. NOTE: Files with the following formats can be loaded. • SMF: Format 0/Format 1 Copy the ﬁles that you want to load onto the SD card or USB ﬂash drive in advance. •...
Page 86 • When loading SMF ﬁles that have multiple channels, selecting “Ch All” will create a region with the notes from those channels on the R20 synth track. In this case, the timbre of each channel will be automatically assigned from their program change numbers.
Page 87 to preview the ﬁle you want to load. This will play the selected ﬁle. will light ( to stop playback. for the ﬁle you want to load. This completes loading the track and opens the Track View Screen. NOTE: • An error message will appear if it cannot be loaded. Select a diﬀerent ﬁle. •...
Page 88 Copying and pasting regions Regions can be copied and pasted to other locations. On the Track View Screen, double-tap the region that you want to copy and paste. This highlights that region and opens the Option Menu at the top of the screen. Tap “Copy”.
Page 89 Double-tap the track where you want to paste in an area that has no regions. The Option Menu will open at the top of the screen. Tap “Paste”. This pastes the copied region at the position of the playback header. The playback header will move to the end of the pasted region.
Page 90 Deleting regions On the Track View Screen, double-tap the region that you want to delete. This highlights that region and opens the Option Menu at the top of the screen. Tap “Delete”. The selected region will be deleted.
Page 91 Splitting regions Regions can be split. On the Track View Screen, move the playback header to the position where you want to split the region. Double-tap the region that you want to split. This highlights that region and opens the Option Menu at the top of the screen. Tap “Split”.
Page 92: Editing Waveforms (Audio/Rhythm Regions)
The Waveform Editing Screen for the selected region opens. ■ Main operations on the Waveform Editing Screen • Zoom out/in horizontally: Pinch in/out horizontally • Scroll horizontally: Slide left and right HINT: When the Waveform Editing Screen is open, pressing...
Page 93 Trimming regions Regions can be trimmed to delete unwanted parts. On the Waveform Editing Screen, drag left/right at the bottom left/right of the region to set the range. Set this to leave the necessary part. Parts outside the selected range will be cut. This will apply the trimming and reopen the Track View Screen.
Page 94 Changing region lengths without changing pitch The lengths of regions can be changed without changing their pitches. Regions that have had lengths changed can be saved as new audio data. On the Waveform Editing Screen, tap to turn this function on ( ) (OFF: Drag left and right to adjust the length of the region.
Page 95 Input the ﬁle name of the edited audio region ﬁle. Character Input Screen overview for how to input characters. When “Done” appears, tap “Close”. The ﬁle with the changed length will be assigned to the track.
Page 96 Completing editing on the Waveform Editing Screen. The Track View Screen will reopen.
Page 97: Editing Notes (Synth Regions)
The Piano Roll Screen for the selected region opens. ■ Main operations on the Piano Roll Screen • Zoom out/in horizontally: Pinch in/out horizontally • Zoom out/in vertically: Pinch in/out horizontally • Scroll horizontally: Slide left and right • Scroll vertically: Slide up and down...
Page 98 Adding/deleting notes Notes can be added and used to play synth sounds using their pitch, length and velocity data. On the Piano Roll Screen, tap to turn this function on ( ) (OFF: Add a note. Tap the Piano Roll to add a note at that position. HINT: The pitch of the note will be the same as on the piano keyboard shown at the left edge.
Page 99 Changing note lengths On the Piano Roll Screen, tap to turn this function on ( ) (OFF: Tap a note and slide it left/right to change its length. HINT: The shortest length is a 32nd note.
Page 100 Adjusting note velocity (strength) On the Piano Roll Screen, tap to turn this function on ( ) (OFF: Tap the note for which you want to adjust the velocity. A Velocity Slider will appear at the top of the screen. Slide the slider or tap to adjust the velocity.
Page 101 Trimming regions By trimming regions, unnecessary parts can be deleted. On the Piano Roll Screen, tap to turn them oﬀ. Drag left/right at the bottom left/right of the region to set the range. Set this to leave the necessary part. Parts outside the selected range will be cut. Completing editing 1.
Page 102: Editing Tracks
Editing tracks When editing tracks, tracks can be deleted and moved, synth tracks can be converted to audio tracks, and track data can be exported as audio data. Deleting tracks The selected track can be deleted. All the regions in the track will also be deleted. Double-tap the header of the track that you want to delete on the Track View Screen.
Page 103 Converting synth tracks to audio tracks Only one synth track is available, so converting a synth track to an audio track makes it possible to create a new synth track. The notes of a synth track can be performed and exported as an audio ﬁle using the currently selected sound.
Page 104 Tap “Convert to Audio”. Input the name of the audio ﬁle to be exported. Character Input Screen overview for how to input characters. When “Done” appears, tap “Close”. This converts the synth track to an audio track and reopens the Track View Screen.
Page 105 Exporting tracks Tracks can be exported to the AUDIO folder on the SD card as WAV or SMF ﬁles. On the Track View Screen, double-tap the header of the track that you want to export as a WAV or SMF ﬁle.
Page 106 Tap “Export”. Input the name of the WAV or SMF ﬁle to be exported. Character Input Screen overview for how to input characters. When “Done” appears, tap “Close”. This exports the track as a WAV or SMF ﬁle and reopens the track view screen.
Page 107 Reordering tracks Tap the header of the track that you want to reorder on the Track View Screen. This highlights the tapped track header. Drag it to the desired position.
Page 108: Using Markers
Using markers By adding markers with names, for example, intro, verse and chorus, to the beginnings of parts, the overall song structure can be made easy to see, which is useful when editing and mixing. Markers are shown in the Control Bar ruler. Adding markers On the Track View...
Page 109 HINT: • Marker names will be assigned automatically each time a marker is added in the following order. Intro → Verse → Chorus → Bridge → Outro → Verse → Verse → ... Marker names can be changed in step 5. •...
Page 110 Moving marker positions On the Track View Screen, move the playback header to the position of the marker you want to move. HINT: The playback header can be moved in ruler increments by pressing This opens the Marker Menu at the top of the screen. to move the marker.
Page 111 Changing marker names On the Track View Screen, move the playback header to the position of the marker you want to rename. HINT: The playback header can be moved in ruler increments by pressing This opens the Marker Menu at the top of the screen. Tap a marker name in the Marker Menu.
Page 112 Change the marker name. Character Input Screen overview for how to input characters. HINT: Marker names can use a maximum of 10 characters. When “Done” appears, tap “Close”. This changes the marker name and returns to the Track View Screen.
Page 113 Deleting markers On the Track View Screen, move the playback header to the position of the marker you want to delete. HINT: The playback header can be moved in ruler increments by pressing This opens the Marker Menu at the top of the screen. Tap “Delete”.
Page 114: Mixing Projects
Mixing projects Switch between the Track View Screen Level Meter View Screen for diﬀerent purposes when mixing. to switch screens. Switching to the Level Meter View Screen Switching to the Track View Screen Checking track levels Checking on the Track View Screen Drag the track numbers right on the Track View Screen.
Page 115 Drag the track numbers left to close the mixer. Checking on the Level Meter View Screen The levels of all tracks and the overall level can be checked at a glance on the Level Meter View Screen. ❶ Levels and fader positions of all tracks ❷...
Page 116: Muting Tracks
Muting tracks The signals of speciﬁc tracks can be muted. Drag the track numbers right on the Track View Screen. This opens the mixer. This mutes that track, and lights ( Multiple tracks can be muted simultaneously. Slide the screen up and down to mute other tracks. Drag the track numbers left to close the mixer.
Page 117: Listening To Selected Tracks Only (Soloing)
Listening to selected tracks only (soloing) Speciﬁc tracks can be selected to listen to only their signals. Drag the track numbers right on the Track View Screen. This opens the mixer. This mutes all other tracks, and lights ( Multiple tracks can be soloed simultaneously. Slide the screen up and down to solo other tracks.
Page 118: Adjusting Volume Levels
Adjusting volume levels Use the channel faders to adjust the levels of individual tracks and the MASTER fader to adjust the overall level. Check the levels on the Level Meter View Screen. ❶ Levels and fader positions of all tracks ❷...
Page 119 HINT: • Tap in the Control Bar to switch which tracks can be controlled by the physical faders (tracks 1–8 or 9–16). (→ Switching controlled tracks) • If the position of a physical fader and its fader setting are diﬀerent because tracks have been switched, for example, the physical fader will not adjust the level.
Page 120: Switching Controlled Tracks
Switching controlled tracks The tracks that can be controlled by the physical faders (tracks 1–8 or 9–16) can be switched. in the Control Bar. • : The physical faders can be used to control tracks 1–8. • : The physical faders can be used to control tracks 9–16.
Page 121: Adjusting The Panning, Eq And Effects Of Tracks
Adjusting the panning, EQ and eﬀects of tracks Adjusting panning The left-right stereo panning of track playback sounds can be adjusted. Adjusting monitor panning for operation details. Adjusting EQ The frequency bands of individual tracks can be boost/cut. Adjusting EQ for details about operation.
Page 122: Mixing Down
Mixing down A recorded project can be mixed and output as a stereo mixdown ﬁle (WAV). The mixdown stereo ﬁle will be saved in the “AUDIO” folder on the SD card with the following format. • Sample rate: 44.1 kHz •...
Page 123: Managing Projects
When a USB ﬂash drive is connected to the R20, projects can be saved on it or loaded from it, and audio/ SMF data can also be loaded from it.
Page 124 AUDIO folder WAV and SMF data loaded in the project are stored in this folder. Put data that you want to load in the R20 here. In addition, mixdown audio ﬁles as well as data created by Rendering projects as WAV ﬁles are stored here.
Page 125: Usb Flash Drive Folder And File Structure
USB ﬂash drive folder and ﬁle structure When a USB ﬂash drive is connected to the R20, folders are created as shown below. The R20 can write project data to the following folders and load necessary ﬁles from them. Root...
Page 126 Connecting USB ﬂash drives Connect USB ﬂash drives to the USB port. Use USB ﬂash drives that are compatible with USB Type-C. USB (Type-C) NOTE: • Never disconnect a USB ﬂash drive when data is being transferred.
Page 127: Opening The Project Option Menu
Opening the Project Option Menu Manage projects on the Project Option Screen on the Home Screen (Track View Screen/Level Meter View Screen). Track View Screen Level Meter View Screen This opens the Project Settings Screen. Tap “Projects” on the Project Settings Screen. This opens the Projects Screen.
Page 128 Tap “Option”. This opens the Project Option Screen for the selected project.
Page 129: Changing Project Names
Changing project names Tap “Rename” in the Project Option Menu (→ Opening the Project Option Menu) of the project that you want to rename. Change the project name. Character Input Screen overview for how to input characters. NOTE: • An error message will appear if the same name already exists after changing a project name. If this happens, change the project name.
Page 130: Duplicating Projects
Duplicating projects Tap “Duplicate” in the Project Option Menu (→ Opening the Project Option Menu) of the project that you want to duplicate. Input the name for the duplicated project. Character Input Screen overview for how to input characters. NOTE: •...
Page 131: Checking Project Information
Checking project information Tap “Information” in the Project Option Menu (→ Opening the Project Option Menu) of the project with information that you want to check. This opens the project Information Screen where you can check the following information. Item Explanation Date/Time Date and time of project creation...
Page 132: Deleting Projects
Deleting projects Tap “Delete” in the Project Option Menu (→ Opening the Project Option Menu) of the project that you want to delete. Tap “Execute”. Tap “Cancel” to cancel deletion and return to the previous screen. When “Done” appears, tap “Close”. This deletes the selected project and reopens the Projects Screen.
Page 133: Rendering Projects As Wav Files
Rendering projects as WAV ﬁles Projects can be rendered in the following format to the AUDIO folder on an SD card or the ZOOM_R20 > AUDIO folder on a USB ﬂash drive. • Stereo WAV ﬁle • Sample rate: 44.1 kHz •...
Page 134 Tap where the rendered stereo WAV ﬁle should be saved. Setting Explanation To SD Card This renders to the SD card. To USB Memory This renders to the USB ﬂash drive. Input the ﬁle name. Character Input Screen overview for how to input characters. NOTE: •...
Page 135: Saving Projects To Usb Flash Drives
Saving projects to USB ﬂash drives Projects are saved to SD cards, but backups can also be saved to USB ﬂash drives. Projects will be saved in the “PROJECT” subfolder of the “ZOOM_L-20” folder on a USB ﬂash drive. Connect a USB ﬂash drive to the USB (Type-C) port (→ Connecting USB ﬂash drives).
Page 136: Importing Projects From Usb Flash Drives
Importing projects from USB ﬂash drives Projects saved in the ZOOM_R20 > PROJECTS folder on a USB ﬂash drive can be imported to SD cards. (→ USB ﬂash drive folder and ﬁle structure) Connect a USB ﬂash drive to the USB (Type-C) port (→ Connecting USB ﬂash drives).
Page 137 When “Done” appears, tap “Close”. This completes importing and opens the Projects Screen.
Page 138: Using As An Audio Interface
Using as an audio interface The R20 can be used as an 8-in/4-out or 2-in/2-out audio interface. The R20 can send 8 separate channels of track audio signals or a mixed stereo signal to a computer, smartphone or tablet. Either 2 or 4 channels of audio signals can be input from a computer, smartphone or tablet.
Page 139: Connecting Computers, Smartphones And Tablets
Connecting computers, smartphones and tablets on the Projects Screen (→ Opening projects). Tap “Audio Interface”. Tap a mode to select it. Setting Explanation Stereo Mix This mode sends a stereo signal that is a mix of all tracks. Multi Track This 8-in/4-out connection mode sends the signals of each track separately to the computer, smartphone or tablet.
Page 140 HINT: • To make sound monitoring, output level and other settings, see Making audio interface settings. • When in Stereo Mix mode, the stereo signal mixed by the R20 is transmitted. See Mixing projects details about mixing.
Page 141 Level Meter View Screen. Tap “Execute”. This disables the audio interface function and opens the Audio Interface Screen. Tap “Cancel” to return to the previous screen. Disconnect the USB cable connecting the R20 and the computer, smartphone or tablet.
Page 142: Making Audio Interface Settings
Settings can be made, including for the monitoring sound and output level. Setting direct monitoring This directly outputs the sound being recorded by the R20 before sending it to the computer, smartphone or tablet. This enables monitoring without latency (direct monitoring).
Page 143 Setting loopback (Stereo Mix mode only) This function allows the playback sound from the computer, smartphone or tablet and the R20 inputs to be mixed and sent back (looped back) to the computer, smartphone or tablet. This function can be used to add narration to music played back from a computer and to record the mix or stream it on that computer, for example.
Page 144 Setting the output level The levels of signals output from the OUTPUT jacks can be adjusted. on the audio interface Level Meter View Screen. Slide the Output Level slider or tap NOTE: This can be set from 0 to 100.
Page 145: Using Guitar Lab
The Guitar Lab application can be used on a computer (Mac/Windows) to add eﬀects that are distributed online as well as to edit and back up patch memories, for example. HINT: • Download Guitar Lab from the ZOOM website. (zoomcorp.com) • See the app manual for setting and operation procedures. Connecting to a computer on the Projects Screen (→...
Page 146 Use a USB (Type-C) cable to connect the R20 and the computer. USB (Type-C) NOTE: • Use a USB (Type-C) cable that supports data transfer. • The R20 cannot operate on USB bus power. Launch Guitar Lab on the computer.
Page 147 Disconnecting from the computer on the Guitar Lab Screen. Tap “Execute”. Tap “Cancel” to return to the previous screen. Disconnect the USB cable connecting the R20 and the computer.
Page 148: Using Midi Keyboards
Using MIDI keyboards The R20 has a variety of synth sound sources. By connecting a MIDI keyboard (sold separately) to the R20, performances on it using desired sounds can be recorded. Connecting MIDI keyboards on the Projects Screen (→ Opening projects).
Page 149 Use a USB (Type-C) cable to connect the R20 and the MIDI keyboard. See the manual included with the MIDI keyboard for details about its settings. USB (Type-C) NOTE: • A USB ﬂash drive cannot be used if “USB MIDI Keyboard” is “On”.
Page 150: Setting The Auto Power Off Function
Setting the Auto Power Oﬀ function The power will automatically turn oﬀ if the R20 is unused for 10 hours. To keep the power on at all times, turn oﬀ the automatic power saving function. on the Projects Screen (→...
Page 151: Setting The Date And Time
Setting the date and time Set the date and time added to recording ﬁles. on the Projects Screen (→ Opening projects). Tap “Date/Time”. to set the date and time.
Page 152 Tap the displayed date format to use. • mm/dd/yy: month/day/year • dd/mm/yy: day/month/year • yy/mm/dd: year/month/day This conﬁrms the set date and time and returns to the previous screen. NOTE: If power is not supplied by an AC adapter for a long time, date and time settings will be reset. If the date and time setting screen appears during startup, set them again.
Page 153: Adjusting The Touchscreen Brightness
Adjusting the touchscreen brightness The brightness of the touchscreen can be adjusted. on the Projects Screen (→ Opening projects). Slide the LCD Brightness slider or tap This adjusts the brightness. HINT: This can be set from 1 to 20.
Page 154: Managing Sd Cards
Managing SD cards Checking SD card information The size and open space of SD cards can be checked. on the Projects Screen (→ Opening projects). Tap “SD Card”. Check the open space and size shown by “Size”. ❶ Open space ❷...
Page 155: Testing Sd Card Performance
Testing SD card performance SD cards can be tested to conﬁrm whether they can be used with the R20. A basic test can be done quickly, while a full test examines the entire SD card. on the Projects Screen (→...
Page 156 Tap “Quick Test” or “Full Test”. Then, tap “Execute”. The card performance test will start. Quick testing Full testing The Quick Test should take about 30 seconds. The amount of time required for the full test will be shown. The result of the test will be shown when it completes.
Page 157: Formatting Sd Cards
Formatting SD cards Use the R20 to format SD cards to maximize their performance. on the Projects Screen (→ Opening projects). Tap “SD Card”. Tap “Format”.
Page 158 • Before using SD cards that have just been purchased or that have been formatted on a computer, they must be formatted by the R20. • Be aware that all data previously saved on the SD card will be deleted when it is formatted.
Page 159: Using As A Card Reader
Using as a card reader By connecting with a computer, data on cards can be checked and copied. Use this to back up projects on a computer and to load audio data and SMF ﬁles from a computer, for example. Connecting to a computer on the Projects Screen (→...
Page 160 Use a USB (Type-C) cable to connect the R20 and the computer. USB (Type-C) NOTE: • Use a USB (Type-C) cable that supports data transfer. • The R20 cannot operate on USB bus power.
Page 161 Drag the R20 icon to the Trash and drop it. NOTE: Always conduct computer ejection procedures before disconnecting the USB cable. Disconnect the USB cable connecting the R20 with the computer, and tap Tap “Execute”. This disconnects with the computer and reopens the SD Card Screen.
Page 162: Restoring Default Setting Values
Restoring default setting values The R20 can be restored to its factory default settings. on the Projects Screen (→ Opening projects). Tap “Factory Reset”. Tap “Execute”. This executes the reset. Tap “Cancel” to cancel resetting and return to the previous screen.
Page 163 • Resetting will restore all settings to their factory defaults. Be certain before using this function. • After resetting the R20 to its factory default state, initial settings will be necessary the next time the power is turned on. (→...
Page 164: Managing The Firmware
This shows the ﬁrmware and preset versions. Updating The R20 ﬁrmware can be updated to the latest versions. The latest update ﬁle can be downloaded from the ZOOM website (zoomcorp.com). Follow the instructions in the “R20 Firmware Update Guide” on the R20 download page.
Page 165: Appendix
• Conﬁrm that the operating system is compatible (→ Using as an audio interface, Using as a card reader). • Connection procedures must be conducted on the R20 to enable it to be recognized by a computer (→Using as an audio interface, Using as a card reader).
Page 166 MIDI implementation chart [Multi Track Recorder] Model : R20 Date : Oct. 25, 2021 Version :1.00 Function ... Transmitted Recognized Remarks Basic Default 1 - 16 Channel Changed Default Mode 1 Mode Messages Altered ****************** ****************** Note 0 - 127...
Page 167 Speciﬁcations Input and output Inputs MIC/LINE (mono) channel counts Outputs MASTER OUT PHONES Inputs MIC/LINE (mono) Connectors 2 XLR/TRS combo jacks 6 XLR (XLR: 2 HOT/TRS: TIP HOT) Input gain +6 dB – +50 dB Input impedance XLR: 3.9 kΩ TRS: 5.3 kΩ/1 MΩ...
Page 168 Recording media 4 – 32 GB cards compatible with the SDHC speciﬁcation 64 GB – 1 TB cards compatible with the SDXC speciﬁcation Eﬀects Maximum number of 3 types simultaneous eﬀects Either insert eﬀects can be used on one channel (input) or send eﬀects can be used on all tracks Patch memories Guitar Lab supported...
Page 169 REMOTE Dedicated wireless adapter (ZOOM BTA-1) Power AC adapter (ZOOM ZAD-1220): 12 V/2.0 A Power consumption 11 W maximum Dimensions 378 mm (W) × 206 mm (D) × 58 mm Weight (unit only) 1.33 kg Note: 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms...
Page 170 ZOOM CORPORATION 4-4-3 Kanda-surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0062 Japan zoomcorp.com Z2I-4458-01...

Zoom R20 Operation Manual

Quick Links

Need help?

Questions and answers

Subscribe to Our Youtube Channel

Related Manuals for Zoom R20

Summary of Contents for Zoom R20

Table of Contents